Ivy is told that men far outperform women on standardized math tests. Which of the following reflects stereotype threat?
A) Ivy uses this as an incentive to study hard for the SAT math section.
B) Though Ivy is a gifted mathematician, she performs poorly on the SAT math section.
C) Ivy ignores this information and earns a high score on the SAT math section.
D) Ivy's preparation for the test allows her to earn a high score on the SAT math section.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stereotype threat occurs when someone is aware of a negative stereotype about a group they belong to and it negatively impacts their performance. In this case, Ivy has been told that men outperform women on standardized math tests, which may cause her to worry that she will perform poorly, leading to stereotype threat. Option A is not a reflection of stereotype threat as Ivy is using the information as a motivator. Option C suggests that Ivy was not impacted by the stereotype, which is possible, but not a reflection of stereotype threat. Option D suggests that Ivy prepared well and earned a high score, which is not necessarily a reflection of stereotype threat.

Ivy Is Told That Men Far Outperform Women on Standardized