Self-Perception and Positive Stereotype Endorsement

The origin and reasoning behind the use of racial stereotypes has been a point of interest for researchers over the years. Many different theories have been proposed including those related to cognitive, evolutionary, and motivational explanations. However, most of these theories and the research backing them primarily focus on negative stereotyping. The origin of positive stereotyping, which also has negative implications associated with their use, has not been evaluated fully. Previous research has suggested that the motive to preserve self-worth and positive self-concept may play a role in stereotype endorsement. Two studies were conducted with the purpose of investigating whether one’s perception of their self-concept affects stereotype endorsement, with particular interest in positive stereotype endorsement. The first study examined if lower perceived self-concept is associated with higher levels of stereotype endorsement toward out-groups both generally and more specifically. Results showed a positive relationship between White participant’s self-concept score of positive Hispanic and endorsement of positive Hispanic stereotypes. Additionally, Black participants that were more conservative or high in social dominance showed the same positive relationship between self- concept of Hispanic positive traits and positive stereotype endorsement of Hispanic stereotypes. For the specific traits, results showed a positive relationship between the self-concept item “I am honest” and endorsement of the stereotype “Hispanic individuals are honest” for both White and Black Participants. Another positive relationship was found between the self-concept item “I am hard working” and the endorsement of the stereotype “Hispanic individuals are hardworking” for White participants. In the second study, bogus measures were used to control participants perceptions of self-concept, specifically related to intelligence and work ethic. Individuals were assigned to either a low or high group for either intelligence or work ethic. Endorsement levels of stereotypes related to intelligence and work ethic were compared between high and low groups. Results showed no significant differences between high or low conditions for both intelligence and work ethic.