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Converging evidence that stereotype threat reduces working memory capacity
1Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson 85721, USA. schmader@u.arizona.edu
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology
|September 23, 2003
Summary
Stereotype threat, the fear of confirming negative stereotypes, impairs performance by reducing working memory capacity. This cognitive mechanism was observed in women and Latinos, impacting women's math test scores.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Negative stereotypes can lower performance in stigmatized groups.
- The cognitive mechanisms behind stereotype threat are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test if stereotype threat reduces working memory capacity.
- To investigate the mediating role of working memory in stereotype threat effects.
Main Methods:
- Three experiments were conducted.
- Stereotype threat was primed in participants.
- Working memory capacity was measured.
- Test performance was assessed.
Main Results:
- Priming negative stereotypes reduced working memory capacity in women and Latinos.
- Reduced working memory capacity mediated the impact of stereotype threat on women's math performance.
Conclusions:
- Working memory capacity is a key cognitive mechanism underlying stereotype threat.
- Findings have implications for understanding and mitigating stereotype threat effects.