Do Stereotype Threats Affect Peer Providers?

Abstract

Mental health organizations are increasingly employing peers, but not without set-backs. This brief commentary explores the possible adverse impact of stereotype threats on the performance of peer providers. A review of social psychology literature would suggest that at least some of these set-backs emerge from the peer's apprehension about fulfilling some of the negative stereotypes that exist about people with mental illnesses. Additional training and supervision are indicated for both peer and non-peer staff members in order to reduce the salience of negative stereotypes in the workplace.