ABSTRACT
This study examined how Nigerians in the U.S. negotiate their identities considering the stereotypes ascribed to them during interactions and strategies for attenuating stereotypes. Interviews with 20 Nigerians revealed that Nigerians were stereotyped positively (i.e., as hardworking, and passionate for education) and negatively (i.e., as fraudsters, kidnappers, and underdeveloped). Also, Nigerians attenuated stereotypes ascribed not only to Nigerians but to Blacks through nationalism, self-awareness, and hard work. Findings challenge beliefs that stereotyping occurs due to the lack of contact with outgroup members. Indeed, stereotyping occurs because of some form of history rather than an absence of history with outgroup members.
Acknowledgement
The author appreciates feedback and consideration from the anonymous reviewers. She also appreciates Dr. Ioana A. Cionea for her inspiration and support.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Notes
1 IRB number: 10840
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Doris E. Acheme
Doris E. Acheme, M.A. is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Communication at the University of Oklahoma. Her research interest is in intergroup and intercultural communication. Specifically, she focuses on the role identity plays in psycho-social responses during interactions.