A quantitative and qualitative analysis of social dominance orientation and race-related comments

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine how social dominance orientation (SDO) might influence perceptions of bias when the race of the offender and the target of the biased comment is either white or black.

Design/methodology/approach

This investigation was conducted in a laboratory with undergraduate students.

Findings

In a study utilizing American student participants, the authors found that when an individual is high in SDO they are more likely to perceive racism/stereotyping when a low-status group member (i.e. African-American) makes a racially biased comment about high-status group members (i.e. Caucasian).

Originality/value

The authors determined the influence of SDO on the perception of racial comments regarding African-Americans and Caucasians. These findings are also unique in that the authors manipulate the authority (i.e. status) of the offender and target.

Citation

L. Simmons, A. and Parks-Yancy, R. (2014), "A quantitative and qualitative analysis of social dominance orientation and race-related comments", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 34 No. 7/8, pp. 531-544. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSSP-07-2013-0081