37B – Sports Science Shorts: Stereotype Threat & Performance

What is stereotype threat and how can it affect sports performance? Is it possible that being challenged by a statement like "girls can't play sports" could make a female athlete perform better in some situations?   Articles: On the causal mechanisms of stereotype threat: can skills that don't rely heavily on working memory still be threatened? "Girls should cook, rather than kick!" – Female soccer players under stereotype threat Girls can play ball: Stereotype threat reduces variability in a motor skill The effect of stereotype threat on performance of a rhythmic motor skill.   More information: http://perceptionaction.com/ My Research Gate Page (pdfs of my articles) My ASU Web page Podcast Facebook page (videos, pics, etc)   Credits: The Flamin' Groovies - Shake Some Action June & Jean Millington – Play Like a Girl The Strangers - Stereotypical Mark Lanegan - Saint Louis Elegy