A Broader Perspective for Subtle Discrimination Interventions

Abstract

Jones, Arena, Nittrouer, Alonso, and Lindsey (2017) make the case that discrimination is multifaceted and can be identified along several continua. They also emphasize the role that every individual may play in the propagation of discrimination. As such, they make note of several interventions from bystanders and allies to combat subtle discrimination. Although we agree that subtle discrimination causes harm and that interventions targeted at such discrimination are necessary, we propose some additional considerations for the science and practice of subtle discrimination reduction. Specifically, we discuss the limitations of focusing on subtle discrimination at the individual level, the ambiguous nature of intentionality, the view of subtle discrimination as a manifestation of a hostile environment that falls under the broader umbrella of negative interpersonal treatment, and the emphasis placed by Jones et al. on the potential for organizational level interventions by proposing several considerations for tackling a climate of negative interpersonal treatment.

Gender Differences in Veterans’ Perceptions of Harassment on Veterans Health Administration Grounds

“…As Odeh, Bruce, Krenn, and Ran (2017) argue, individualfocused interventions are limited in their ability to decrease subtle discrimination in organizations and risk alienating members of particular groups. Systematic, organizational-level interventions are necessary to have broad impacts on existing "mistreatment climates"; for example, employee training and development programs can be framed positively around building respectful organizational climates, versus oriented toward reducing negative interpersonal behaviors (Odeh et al, 2017;Osatuke, Moore, Ward, Dyrenforth, & Belton, 2009). The VA's initial approach to culture change thus has anchoring in the literature, and would benefit from initiatives to support the development of additional guidance for local leaders, managers, providers, and staff.…”