In this interview, Aronson explains his research on the "stereotype threat," that fear that one might do something to reinforce a bad stereotype about one's group. This can be self-fulfilling fear and impair performance. Aronson views the sources of stereotype threat as being both internal and external, and that "soft bigotry" of lower expectations is a two-way street. He suggests to AVID teachers that they confront the stereotype with their students, thus releasing them from their vulnerability. Students are asked to discuss their personal experiences with stereotype threats and how they can be mitigated.