Development of the Reflexive Antiracism Scale – Indigenous

Abstract

Purpose

Reflexive Antiracism is an approach to antiracism that seeks to avoid the limitations of essentialism and negative emotional reactions through a focus on racialisation (a concept that encompasses both racism and antiracism) as well as the formation and maintenance of racialised identities. This paper aims to outline the construction and validation of a scale to measure this novel theoretical construct: the Reflexive Antiracism Scale‐Indigenous (RAS‐I).

Design/methodology/approach

In the context of a cultural training course focused on Indigenous peoples in Australia, 20 items to assess attitudes were developed along with four hypothetical scenarios designed to assess behavioural intentions in specific situations. The survey formed by these items and scenarios was piloted to assess test‐retest, concurrent and construct validity as well as item endorsement and internal reliability.

Findings

Findings suggest that an 11‐item scale based on this survey forms a valid and reliable measure of Reflexive Antiracism. Further research and applications are discussed.

Originality/value

This paper will prompt further exploration of Reflexive Antiracism as a concept that can be applied in a range of settings where a more nuanced understanding and approach to antiracism may be of benefit. Being aware of their position within a society that is racialised will allow antiracists to be reflexive (and realistic) about their ability as individuals to achieve antiracist ideals while continuing to strive towards them.

Citation

Paradies, Y., Franklin, H. and Kowal, E. (2013), "Development of the Reflexive Antiracism Scale – Indigenous", Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Vol. 32 No. 4, pp. 348-373. https://doi.org/10.1108/EDI-03-2012-0017