Understanding Racial Bias Awareness Across Adulthood
Author Information
Author(s): Jennifer Beatty, Patrick Hill, Jonathan E Doriscar, Seanna Leath
Primary Institution: Washington University in St. Louis
Hypothesis
How do age-diverse White Americans make meaning of specific instances of personal racial bias?
Conclusion
Age-diverse White adults often recognize their racial biases but justify them with self-conscious emotions that do not reduce bias.
Supporting Evidence
- 98% of younger adults reported instances of racial bias.
- 91% of middle-aged adults reported instances of racial bias.
- 86% of older adults reported instances of racial bias.
- Common justifications for bias included perceived threat and situation ambiguity.
- Middle-aged and older adults were less likely to express emotions about their biases.
Takeaway
This study looked at how people of different ages think about their own racial biases, and found that many people recognize their biases but often have reasons for them.
Methodology
Mixed-methods approach with three data collections targeting younger, middle-aged, and older adults.
Potential Biases
Participants may have underreported negative emotions or biases due to social desirability.
Limitations
The study may not fully capture the complexity of racial bias across all demographics.
Participant Demographics
Age-diverse White Americans aged 19 to 85.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website