The Impact of Stereotype Threat in the Workplace

Seminar | Courtney von Hippel

Date:  Wednesday 9 October

Workshop:  10:30am-11.30am

Location: QUT Gardens Point

Event Details

Speaker Details

Courtney von Hippel

This seminar explores the pervasive influence of stereotype threat—the concern of being reduced to a negative stereotype about one’s group—in workplace environments. The research delves into the subtle, yet chronic presence of stereotype threat in real-world settings compared to its more overt manifestations in controlled lab environments. Through a series of studies employing mixed methodologies, Courtney will discuss the significant consequences of stereotype threat on employees. Examples include women adopting a more masculine communication style in leadership roles and older workers feeling marginalised. This presentation aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical organisational settings, shedding light on how stereotypes affect employee outcomes and workplace dynamics.

Courtney is an Associate Professor in the School of Psychology at the University of Queensland. Trained in organizational and social psychology, her research primarily focuses on workplace contexts. She investigates the implications of feeling stereotyped in the workplace among women in male-dominated professions, older employees, and men in female-dominated fields such as child protection. Additionally, she studies burnout among employees in emotionally demanding professions, including mental health and alcohol and other drug services staff. For more information visit her profile: https://psychology.uq.edu.au/profile/3196/courtney-von-hippel