Conceptualizing Self with In-Group Stereotypes: Context and Esteem Precursors

Abstract

Use of internalized social stereotypes of an in-group in self-conceptions was examined. It was proposed that situationally induced salience of sex-group membership would interact with individual self-esteem to influence presence of gender roll stereotypes in the working self-concept of women. Sixty female subjects had their attention focused either on their unique characteristics or on their gender-group conceptions. This manipulation was crossed with self-esteem level. Masculinity and femininity scores from the Bem Sex-Role Inventory were obtained as dependent measures. Results showed that attentional focus interacted with self-esteem level to influence both masculinity and femininity scores. Theoretical and potential practical implications are discussed.