Kevin is taking a course on women's literature, and is the only male student in the class (all of the other students are female). Research suggests that, as a result, he will be ____.
A) especially aware of his maleness, and somewhat more likely to perform better in the class than he otherwise would
B) especially aware of his maleness, and somewhat more likely to perform worse in the class than he otherwise would
C) especially aware of his female qualities, and somewhat more likely to perform worse in the class than he otherwise would
D) especially aware of his female qualities, and somewhat more likely to perform better in the class than he otherwise would

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This phenomenon is known as stereotype threat, where being a member of a particular group (in this case, being male in a class about women's literature) can evoke negative stereotypes and feelings of anxiety, which can negatively impact performance. Therefore, Kevin is more likely to perform worse in the class.

Kevin Is Taking a Course on Women's Literature, and Is