The double-edge of similarity and difference mindsets: What comparison mindsets do depends on whether self or group representations are focal

Past work has argued that comparison mindsets affect stereotyping: perceivers in a difference mindset stereotype less than those in a similarity mindset, contrasting their judgments of an individual away from their representation of the group. Here, we argue that the self can also act as a reference point, implying that the impact of comparison mindsets depends on what is focal. In two studies manipulating comparison mindsets and activated representations, we find support for our claims that a difference (compared to similarity) mindset leads to less stereotyping and greater social projection when group representations are focal but to more stereotyping and less projection when self representations are focal.