Question

You're are African American and your son, DeShawn is in high school. DeShawn has been selected to take a national math test that could result in a college scholarship. On the basis of Claude Steele's findings with stereotype threat, you instruct DeShawn to NOT fill in any information regarding his race before he takes the exam. Why?

Answer 1

To minimize the impact of stereotype threat, DeShawn is instructed not to disclose his race before taking the math test.

Step-by-step explanation:

Stereotype threat, as explained by Claude Steele, refers to the concern that individuals may experience about confirming negative stereotypes associated with their social group. In the case of your son, DeShawn, instructing him not to fill in any information regarding his race before taking the math test is to mitigate the potential negative effects of stereotype threat on his performance. By not disclosing his race, DeShawn can focus solely on his abilities and perform to his full potential without the added pressure of stereotypes affecting his mindset.