An examination of factors affecting perception of workplace discrimination

R Banerjee - Journal of Labor Research, 2008 - Springer
Journal of Labor Research, 2008Springer
This study investigates perceptions of workplace discrimination among racial minorities in
Canada. Specifically, the study examines how objective experiences of disadvantage and
expectations for equity influence racial minorities' perceptions of discrimination. The results
indicate that while both of these factors affect perceptions of discrimination, expectations for
equity may be especially important. Although new immigrants are among the most
disadvantaged groups in the Canadian labor market, they are less likely to perceive …
Abstract
This study investigates perceptions of workplace discrimination among racial minorities in Canada. Specifically, the study examines how objective experiences of disadvantage and expectations for equity influence racial minorities’ perceptions of discrimination. The results indicate that while both of these factors affect perceptions of discrimination, expectations for equity may be especially important. Although new immigrants are among the most disadvantaged groups in the Canadian labor market, they are less likely to perceive discrimination than longer term immigrants, who may have higher expectations for equitable treatment. Education also increases the perception of discrimination among immigrants, perhaps due to the higher expectations of educated immigrants. Lastly, objective income inequity is not found to be related to perceived discrimination.
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