What effect does stereotype threat have on individuals during testing?

Stereotype threat refers to the risk of confirming negative stereotypes about one’s social group, which can lead to increased anxiety and pressure during testing situations. This heightened state of anxiety can distract individuals from fully concentrating on the task at hand, thereby impairing their performance. Research has shown that when individuals are aware of a stereotype that portrays their group negatively in a particular domain (like intelligence or academic ability), it can lead to reduced confidence and increased stress, ultimately resulting in poorer test outcomes.

While some might assume that this pressure could motivate individuals to perform better (as suggested by the idea of enhancing performance through motivation), the reality is that the anxiety stemming from stereotype threat often hinders cognitive processes such as working memory and problem-solving skills, which are crucial during tests. The concept of cognitive flexibility, which involves adapting one’s thinking and approach, can also be negatively affected, as the stress associated with stereotype threat can limit an individual’s ability to think creatively or adjust strategies effectively. This explains why stereotype threat is primarily linked to reduced performance rather than improvements.