Uncertainty Threat Can Cause Stereotyping

Abstract

Uncertainty threats can cause a wide range of compensatory responses. The present research demonstrates how uncertainty threat can cause a particular response with significant social consequences: stereotyping. Participants in this study completed a measure of implicit stereotyping after being exposed to an uncertainty threat or not. They also completed an individual difference measure to tap into their needs for predictability and structure. Results showed that uncertainty threat caused increased stereotyping of an ethnic out-group when needs for predictability and structure were high. For participants who did not have a high level of these needs, uncertainty did not increase stereotyping. When uncertainty threatens important goals such as prediction and control of events, individuals who most value these goals seem to be the ones who are most likely to use stereotypes. These stereotypes, ironically, may reduce the success of accurate event prediction for the very people who place the greatest value on predictability and structure.