Access Type
Open Access Thesis
Date of Award
January 2010
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A.
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Rusty B. McIntyre
Abstract
Stereotype threat has been shown to be an important cause of performance detriments in various social groups. It has also been theorized that stereotype threat could be applicable to any group so long as the individual believes their performance may reinforce the negative stereotype. The current work attempts to induce stereotype threat in participants believing they belong to an experimentally created and negatively stereotyped group using a minimal group paradigm. Across two studies there did not appear to be significant performance changes typically observed in stereotype threat research. Various cognitive measures and post-performance inquiries did generally support claims that participants were identifying and processing the stereotypes according to the instructions provided, suggesting that although performance was not affected, traditionally thought stereotype threat processes were occurring. Unexpected gender effects were also observed in both performance and post-test measures and are explored where appropriate. Suggestions for future iterations of the current work are suggested in light of the unsupported, yet plausible, hypotheses.
Recommended Citation
Fuller, Eric W., "Threat By Association: Minimal Group Affiliation And Its Outcome For Stereotype Threat" (2010). Wayne State University Theses. 2.
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/oa_theses/2