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

Open Access

Included in

Psychology Commons

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