The duality of bias: Predictors of racially motivated Differential Test Functioning in interview evaluations

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2011

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Despite continued interest in and research on discrimination, the complex nature of the process through which it emerges has not been adequately explored. In the current study, I assessed racially-motivated Differential Test Functioning (DTF) and its drivers in an interview context. Specifically, I investigated patterns of DTF-for, DTF-against, and no DTF across three studies. Moreover, I predicted five patterns of responding using in-group belonging (rater race and ethnic identity), prejudice, and motivation to hide prejudice. Results indicate that patterns of responding indicative of DTF-against blacks, DTF-against whites, and no DTF emerged in both student and adult samples. Additionally, in-group belonging and a motivation to hide prejudice appear to predict bias-against, whereas a low in-group belonging may result in no DTF. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

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