MAN4102 Discussion 3
After reading Chapter 6, review the information in Box 6.2 on pages 155-156 in your textbook titled: “The Fear of Being Judged: How Stereotypes Outside of the Workplace Affect Behavior Inside the Workplace.” Then, answer the discussion questions below.
Each discussion question should have its own dedicated paragraph consisting of approximately 4-6 sentences each. This assignment is a writing/research exercise, so please verbalize self-created full sentences in paragraph form, and refrain from bullet-style lists in your responses.
Discussion Questions
1.
In your own words, explain the concept of “stereotype threat.” How might this impact workplace
behavior and performance? Provide specific examples.
2.
Describe two ways that diversity training can mitigate stereotype threat in work environments.
Everyone is faced with stereotypes based on what identity group they find themselves in. Stereotype threat is when an individual is cognizant of the stereotypes associated with their identity group and fear acting in a way to confirm these stereotypes. Stereotype threat can impact an individual’s workplace performance and behavior in several ways. An individual may not speak up about abuse that they have faced in the workplace due to the negative stereotypes associated with their identity group. One example I can think of was brought to light during the #MeToo movement. Terry Crews came forward on social media stating that he was groped in front of his wife by a high-level Hollywood executive at a party
and did not speak out due to fearing being labeled as a thug. On October 10, 2017, Terry Crews released a series of posts on Twitter detailing the incident. He claimed he was worried that had he fought back the headlines the following morning would read “240 lbs. Black Man stomps out Hollywood Honcho”
(Martin, 2017). Terry Crews was worried that he would be ostracized and unable to find work if he retaliated in any way or spoke out about the abuse. Diversity training, if done correctly, can help mitigate the issues that arise due to stereotype threat. Diversity training can help eliminate false stereotypes and show employees that the organization values the employees that fall under these different identity groups. By doing so, employees will feel more comfortable in the work environment and will be more likely to work to their full potential. It is important that diversity training be delivered in a way in which it will not reinforce negative stereotypes. The organization should make it known that they stand behind these initiatives and it is not just another brief computer course you take when hired to ensure they are covered in the event of litigation. Employees of all identity groups should be represented and encouraged to take part in workplace activities. References
Martin, M. (2017, December 10). Terry Crews On His Sexual Assault Lawsuit: This Is About Accountability
.
Retrieved from NPR: https://www.npr.org/2017/12/10/569682236/terry-crews-on-his-sexual-
assault-lawsuit-this-is-about-accountability
