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The consequences of heroization for exploitation.

Matthew L Stanley1, Aaron C Kay1

  • 1Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University Fuqua School of Business, Duke University.

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Summary

Calling certain jobs "heroes" can backfire. This positive stereotype may lead to expectations of exploitation, ultimately harming nurses, teachers, and military personnel.

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Area of Science:

  • Social Psychology
  • Occupational Studies
  • Stereotype Research

Background:

  • The 'hero' label is frequently applied to professions like nursing, teaching, and military service.
  • While intended to express admiration, this label may carry unintended negative consequences.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the problematic effects of the 'hero' stereotype on perceptions of occupational groups.
  • To examine how heroization influences beliefs about exploitation vulnerability and policy support.

Main Methods:

  • Conducted nine preregistered studies utilizing diverse materials and experimental designs.
  • Examined expectations of exploitation, the persistence of the hero label across career changes, and policy support.

Main Results:

  • Heroization increased expectations that individuals in these roles would willingly accept exploitation.
  • The 'hero' label's effects persisted even when individuals transitioned to new careers.
  • Occupational heroization reduced opposition to exploitative policies by shaping beliefs about worker willingness.

Conclusions:

  • The 'hero' label, despite its positive intent, can paradoxically lead to the exploitation of revered occupational groups.
  • This research highlights the detrimental impact of positive stereotypes on worker treatment and policy advocacy.