Self-Fulfilling Prophecies

In studies, deriding women caused doubt, lowering the math scores of competent women as they second-guessed themselves. This proved to be true across all people facing stereotypes, even white men.

I firmly believe in this. One must mind the poison that leaves their lips. Further, the bile others expel can affect your potential.

Whether you accept their words or not, they occupy an area of consciousness that could otherwise be focused on enhancing the task at hand.

(Source)