Stereotype Threat

The stereotypes we have about aging adults are more powerful than we think. The more we think that aging will affect us physically or cognitively, the more it actually does. This is through a process called “stereotype threat,” and it’s well established for people in minority groups. Its effect on older adults is less recognized, according to Sara Barber, who is a professor of Psychology and Gerontology at Georgia State University. (Originally aired March 2, 2021)