Growing Racial Resilience: The Impact of Mindsets on the Development of Prejudice

Abstract

Previous studies have indicated a strong link between lay theories and the development of prejudice. The purpose of this article is to review past studies that have examined the relation between a specific lay theory (mindset) and the development of prejudice, as well as highlight areas for future research that will contribute to our theoretical understanding of mindsets (and their relation to prejudice). Specifically, we highlight the need for future studies to examine mindsets from the target’s perspective, to explore how contextual cues may influence the development of mindsets over time, and to observe how mindsets motivate collective action among majority group members. Future studies focused on these areas will deepen the field’s theoretical understanding of the impact of mindsets on the development of prejudice. Such knowledge, in turn, can inform the construction of future mindset interventions that foster sustainable and concrete improvements in interracial relations and ultimately promote racial equity.