Date of Graduation
Spring 2017
Degree
Master of Science in Psychology
Department
Psychology
Committee Chair
Carol Shoptaugh
Abstract
Stereotype threat refers to being at risk or confirming, as self-characteristic, a negative group stereotype about one's group. Past research has linked stereotype threat to a multitude of detrimental outcomes including decreased test performance, the drainage of cognitive resources, and increased stress levels. However, many of these findings were confined to laboratory settings and focused only on immediate effects. Research on stereotype threat framed as a macro-level product in a non-laboratory setting is limited at this time. In an attempt to bridge this gap, the present study examined the lingering effects of stereotype threat on minority satisfaction / commitment in a university setting. The present research also introduced a potential moderator of stereotype threat and minority student satisfaction / commitment in the form of a higher order positive construct, psychological capital. Contrary to initial expectations, results indicated that while minority students reported significantly higher levels of perceived stereotype threat compared to non-minority students, they remained committed to and satisfied with their university. Furthermore, levels of psychological capital did not seem to act as a buffer for stereotype threat.
Keywords
stereotype threat, discrimination, prejudice, commitment, satisfaction, stress, self-efficacy, psychological capital
Subject Categories
Psychology
Copyright
© Lei Shirase
Recommended Citation
Shirase, Lei J., "Stereotype Threat in Higher Education: The Role of Psychological Capital on Student Satisfaction and Commitment" (2017). MSU Graduate Theses/Dissertations. 3176.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/3176
