Let's say that African American students who took the same test performed better if they thought it measured problem solving ability than when they thought it measured intelligence. Which of the following is most relevant to understanding the different average test scores?
A) attribution theory
B) stereotype threat
C) implicit prejudice
D) ethnic identity

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stereotype threat is the phenomenon where individuals perform worse on a task when they are aware of negative stereotypes about their identity group such as race or gender. When African American students think a test measures intelligence, they may feel pressure to perform as well as the stereotype suggests, which can lead to anxiety and reduced performance. On the other hand, when they think the test measures problem-solving ability, they may not feel as much pressure based on stereotypes, leading to better performance. The other options do not directly address this phenomenon.

Let's Say That African American Students Who Took the Same