Stereotype Threat - Essay Sample

Introduction

Explanation of Stereotype Threat

In today's world, people still experience stereotyping threats, even though diversification has been encouraged. Women, as well as people of color, face several instances of stereotyping in various platforms of society, including in the social and occupational settings. This video goes to lengths to explain the stereotype threat following a conversation with Claude Steele. It digs deep into discussing the influence of stereotype threat on behavior. The conversation is held with a veteran in the field of psychology at Stanford University. The veteran has conducted much research on stereotype threats, and has even gone to the extent of writing a book entitled "Whistling Vilvadi." Throughout the conversation, evidence on the subject of stereotype threat is cited, and it concludes that stereotype threats have an influence on behavior, particularly the negative impact that stereotype threat bears on short-term performance.

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Illustration of Stereotype Threat from Claude Steel's Book "Whistling Vilvadi"

The video explains the study conducted by Claude Steel; one which examined stereotype threat and the influence it bears on behavior. The first instance of illustrating stereotype threats is picked from his book. The title of the book bears an inspiration based on a real-life situation. The title "Whistling Vilvadi" is picked from the story of an African American, Brent Staples. The story captures the stereotype threat at its best because, from the narration, the victim is subjected to stereotype because he is black, well-bodied, and also dressed as a student. This act makes the whites uncomfortable, and they subject him to stereotype through avoidance and a display of attitude-oriented reactions with acute apprehensions. The whites get to view the victim as a menace, and this sets a significant impact on him. The victim becomes socially impacted, and it is depressing.

Quantitative Research on Stereotype Threat and its Adverse Effects on Performance

The video also explains the stereotype threat to be a form of distracting pressure that negatively affects performance. The pressure can be overwhelming, especially when victims of stereotype threats lack awareness and protection from such cases. The video has adopted a quantitative research performed on individuals to assess the issue of stereotype threats and has concluded that stereotype threats bear adverse effects, including underperformance. One of the researches illustrated is that of issuing a math test to a group of people, equally good men, and women. However, underperformance is experienced among women because of the stereotype threat that women poorly perform in math. In another test, the researchers get rid of the stereotype threat, and surprisingly the women perform better. This shows how overwhelming and pressure-based stereotypes can be hence the underperformance.

The video draws up the conclusion that stereotype threats influence behavior and lead to underperformance. It also emphasizes that stereotype threats affect a wide range of identities, regardless. However, solutions to stereotype threats are available. The best and recommended solution entails creating a sense of identity among people in various settings, from schools to workplaces. As such, people can learn to appreciate the importance of diversity as well as realizing the consequences of stereotypes. Adverse experiences have been linked to stereotype threats subjected to individuals, although awareness and education can help curb the problem.

References

Not in Our School. (2013, July 18). Stereotype Threat: A Conversation with Claude Steele

[video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=failylROnrY