What impact do stereotypes have on individuals' performance, according to the stereotype threat concept?

The concept of stereotype threat highlights how awareness of negative stereotypes associated with one's social identity can adversely influence an individual's performance. When individuals are faced with the pressure of a stereotype that suggests they may not perform well in a particular area, they often experience anxiety, self-doubt, or distraction, which can hinder their ability to focus and perform at their best.

Research in this area has shown that when individuals are reminded of negative stereotypes—whether regarding race, gender, or other identity factors—they may underperform in tasks related to those stereotypes. This phenomenon is not limited to academics; it can also affect performance in various settings, such as athletics or professional environments.

The experience of stereotype threat can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where the individual’s concern about confirming the stereotype negatively influences their performance, causing them to exhibit the very behaviors or results that the stereotype predicts. This underscores the powerful impact that social perceptions and societal beliefs can have on individuals' lived experiences and outcomes.