ABSTRACT
Women can be at a distinct disadvantage in leadership positions, especially considering legitimacy begins with “the process of being perceived by others as a leader.” Women are often keenly aware of the pervasive stereotypes surrounding their gender and are cognizant that others may perceive and treat them accordingly—termed identity threat. These stereotype-based expectations of inferiority can be threatening and psychologically taxing. This chapter discusses the powerful role of belief systems in shaping the meaning of those threats. Specifically, it focuses on leadership efficacy and growth mindsets for understanding responses to identity threat and the effectiveness of leader role models. The authors conclude with how the cognitive approach taken in this chapter can be assimilated with interpersonal processes—namely the importance of role models. This integrated intrapersonal and interpersonal perspective can inform interventions designed to encourage belief systems that attenuate deleterious threat effects.
