Combining the stereotype content model and the exerciser stereotype: effects of the level of sport participation in people with upper limb amputation

Several studies have investigated the exerciser stereotype associated with disability, but they focused solely on wheelchair users. The present study examined able-bodied people's perceptions towards people with upper limb amputation with respect to information about their sport participation (recreational vs. elite). This study is the first to distinguish the facets of the warmth and competence and to examine the perceivers' emotional and behavioural tendencies in relation with the exerciser stereotype. Participants (N = 593) were recruited online and included if they were at least 18 years old and did not report having a disability. They read a description of an individual with upper limb amputation who was either elite athlete, recreational athlete or with no information about sport participation. Participants then associated the target with traits related to warmth and competence (including facets), as well as their own emotional and behavioural tendencies. Results showed that the elite athlete target was perceived more competent and was more admired than both the recreational athlete target and the control target. Assertiveness was the facet that best distinguished athlete targets from the control target and could therefore play a particular role in explaining the competence-enhancing associated with the exerciser stereotype. A diminishing effect of sport information on warmth observed is also discussed. This study highlights the importance of considering facets of both warmth and competence in this research area. Our results advocate for increased media coverage of parasport, and present new arguments for promoting sport participation among individuals with upper limb amputation.