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described to them as measuring their natural athletic ability (Stone, 2002; Stone, Lynch, Sjomeling, & Darley,
1999). [31]
Research has found that stereotype threat is caused by both cognitive and emotional factors (Schmader, Johns, &
Forbes, 2008). [32] On the cognitive side, individuals who are experiencing stereotype threat show an increased
vigilance toward the environment as well as increased attempts to suppress stereotypic thoughts. Engaging in these
behaviors takes cognitive capacity away from the task. On the affective side, stereotype threat occurs when there is a
discrepancy between our positive concept of our own skills and abilities and the negative stereotypes that suggest
poor performance. These discrepancies create stress and anxiety, and these emotions make it harder to perform well
on the task.
Stereotype threat is not, however, absolute; we can get past it if we try. What is important is to reduce the self doubts
that are activated when we consider the negative stereotypes. Manipulations that affirm positive characteristics about
the self or one’s social group are successful at reducing stereotype threat (Marx & Roman, 2002; McIntyre, Paulson, &
Lord, 2003). [33] In fact, just knowing that stereotype threat exists and may influence our performance can help
alleviate its negative impact (Johns, Schmader, & Martens, 2005). [34]
In summary, although there is no definitive answer to why IQ bell curves differ across racial and
ethnic groups, and most experts believe that environment is important in pushing the bell curves
apart, genetics can also be involved. It is important to realize that, although IQ is heritable, this
does not mean that group differences are caused by genetics. Although some people are naturally
taller than others (height is heritable), people who get plenty of nutritious food are taller than
people who do not, and this difference is clearly due to environment. This is a reminder that
group differences may be created by environmental variables but also able to be reduced through
appropriate environmental actions such as educational and training programs.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- IQ is distributed in the population in the form of a normal distribution (frequently known as a bell curve).
- Mental retardation is a generalized disorder ascribed to people who have an IQ below 70, who have experienced
deficits since childhood, and who have trouble with basic life skills, such as dressing and feeding oneself and
communicating with others. One cause of mental retardation is Down syndrome.