Studying is lame when he got game: racial stereotypes and the discouragement of Black student-athletes from schoolwork

Positive stereotypes appear favorable but may have negative consequences for the targets of such beliefs. Because such stereotypes often have prescriptive properties, stereotype-confirming behavior among targets may be perceived as especially appropriate and subsequently rewarded. Furthermore, targets may be actively encouraged to engage in such “natural” behaviors despite potentially negative outcomes. White participants assumed the role of a career counselor and offered guidance to a Black or White student who excelled in a stereotypic domain (athletics). Male participants who personally endorsed positive racial stereotypes discouraged the Black student (but not the White student) from academic-related goals and behaviors. The implications of such diverging guidance on the perpetuation of intergroup differences in status and achievement are discussed.