James Is a 68-Year-Old Retired History Professor, Who Has Been

question 23

Multiple Choice

James is a 68-year-old retired history professor, who has been asked to take over a college class for a week. Although he has practiced with the equipment used in the classroom, he is concerned that any slip in using this computer equipment will confirm the stereotype about older people "not being able to learn new skills, particularly those related to computers." Because he is anxious and preoccupied about possible problems with the classroom equipment, James actually does experience problems with the computer projection system during his first lecture. Psychologist Claude Steele referred to this as

• A)scapegoating.
• B)stereotype threat.
• C)dogmatism.
• D)cognitive dissonance.

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Definitions:

Biological Factors

Aspects related to living organisms and biological systems that influence behavior, health, and development.

Pathogens

Pathogens are microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, that can cause disease in their host.

General Adaptation Syndrome

A three-phase model (alarm, resistance, exhaustion) describing the physiological responses to stress, developed by Hans Selye.

Exhaustion Stage

The third stage of the GAS, characterized by weakened resistance and possible deterioration.