Final answer:
The term referring to the concern that one might inadvertently affirm a negative stereotype about their group is 'stereotype threat'. It is related to the concepts of stereotypes, prejudice, and confirmation bias, where individuals tend to seek out information that supports their stereotypes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stereotype threat is the fear that one's conduct or appearance will be misinterpreted as supporting the simplistic, biased viewpoint of another. Stereotype threat occurs when individuals are concerned about conforming to negative stereotypes about their social group, which can lead to anxiety and reduced performance in activities related to the stereotype. This concept is part of the broader discourse on stereotypes, prejudice, and confirmation bias.
Confirmation bias is a cognitive bias that involves favoring information that confirms previously existing beliefs or biases. For instance, in the context of stereotypes and prejudices, when we seek out information that supports our stereotypes, we are engaging in confirmation bias. This could include ignoring evidence that contradicts our stereotypical views and consequently reinforcing our prejudiced beliefs about certain groups of people.
Discrimination is the behavior that can result from holding prejudiced attitudes, where individuals or groups receive unfair treatment based on their membership in a particular group.