Breaking Stereotypes: Social Identity and Physical Activity Motivation

?? I have had the honor to interview great guests on the podcast, and in this blog post, I am summarizing the discussions with Dr. A?na Chalabaev, an Associate Professor at the University of Grenoble Alpes, France.

Her research is fascinating as it delves into the effects of social stereotypes on behaviors in the physical domain, with a particular focus on sex and aging stereotypes.?

?? Her work explores the extent to which differences in performance and physical activity according to sex and age may be socially constructed, beyond their physiological determinants.

The identification of the mechanisms (motivational, cognitive, affective, physiological) through which stereotypes may be incorporated, and of the strategies that may limit their influence, is examined within different contemporary socio-cognitive models.?

?? Stereotypes can be powerful influencers on our behavior. In the realm of physical activity, stereotypes related to sex and age can significantly impact how individuals perceive their abilities and the extent to which they engage in physical activities.?

"Stereotypes are not just harmful labels; they can shape our actions in the physical domain."?

?? ?? Chalabaev's research is instrumental in understanding these stereotypes' effects and developing strategies to mitigate their influence. Her work is grounded in several socio-cognitive models, including stereotype threat theory, stereotype embodiment theory, achievement goals theory, and regulatory fit theory.?

??? Stereotype threat theory suggests that people are likely to experience anxiety in a situation where they have the potential to confirm a negative stereotype about their social group. This anxiety can negatively impact performance and could potentially discourage individuals from participating in physical activity.?

?? Stereotype embodiment theory posits that individuals internalize stereotypes throughout their lives, and these internalized stereotypes can affect their health and behavior in later life. For example, if older adults internalize negative stereotypes about aging and physical activity, they may be less likely to engage in physical activity.?

?? Achievement goals theory is another lens through which Chalabaev examines the impact of stereotypes. This theory suggests that our behavior is driven by our desire to achieve competence. Stereotypes can influence how we perceive our competence, which in turn can affect our motivation to engage in physical activity.?

?? Lastly, regulatory fit theory proposes that individuals are more motivated to pursue a goal when the way they pursue it aligns with their regulatory focus. Stereotypes can influence this regulatory focus and, therefore, our motivation to engage in physical activity.?

?? Chalabaev's work is crucial in the field of physical activity research. By understanding the mechanisms through which stereotypes influence behavior, we can develop strategies to combat these stereotypes and encourage more people to engage in physical activity.?

"Understanding is the first step towards change. By understanding how stereotypes work, we can work towards a world where everyone feels empowered to engage in physical activity, regardless of their sex or age."?

?? If you found this summary intriguing, I highly recommend you listen to the full podcast episode with Dr. A?na Chalabaev. Her insights into the role of social stereotypes in physical activity are truly enlightening.?

Would be great to hear your thoughts, so drop a comment :)??

#PhysicalActivity #Research #Stereotypes #Motivation?

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Physical Activity Researcher Podcast is the source of the latest research findings on all things related to physical activity, exercise, and health. It has over 400 episodes with world-leading experts, so you will find a lot of interesting episodes. Check out the podcast here: https://paresearcher.podbean.com/?

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