Which cognitive ability allows individuals to use controlled processing to inhibit stereotypes according to studies of stereotyping?

The ability that enables individuals to engage in controlled processing to inhibit stereotypes is best characterized by post-formal thinking. This cognitive ability reflects a more advanced level of reasoning beyond the logical and formal operations typically associated with adolescence. Post-formal thinking involves the ability to integrate multiple perspectives and recognize that truth can be subjective and situational, which is crucial when addressing stereotypes.

This type of thinking allows individuals to critically evaluate their own thoughts and the stereotypes they may unconsciously hold. It promotes cognitive flexibility and enables people to consider context, complexity, and ambiguity, which are essential for overcoming simplistic, stereotypical judgments about others. The ability to recognize and set aside preconceived notions is key to engaging in thoughtful, intentional decision-making that counters automatic stereotypes.

In contrast, concrete thinking refers to a more rigid, literal way of thinking focused on observable and specific ideas, which does not facilitate the nuanced processing needed to challenge stereotypes. Abstract reasoning, while it encompasses the ability to think logically and draw connections between ideas, may not inherently address the biases that come from stereotypes. Dual-processing refers to the existence of both automatic, intuitive responses and controlled, analytical thinking but does not specifically emphasize the usage of controlled processing to inhibit stereotypes in the same way post-formal thinking does.