Stereotype Threat versus Stereotype Boost

Stereotype threat, a predicament that arises when one is at risk of confirming a negative stereotype about one’s competence in a given domain, has been found to be a factor in explaining the underrepresentation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Research indicates stereotype threat could undermine performance through producing anxiety, decreasing performance expectations, and impairing self-efficacy. While the research on the effect of negative stereotypes has been relatively consistent, the findings on the effect of positive stereotypes have been mixed. This review will examine previous efforts relating to stereotype threat, stereotype boost theory, and their mechanisms. Implications for future research and practice will also be discussed