Reactions of Beneficiaries to Preferential Treatment: A Reality Check

Abstract

This study investigates the reactions of men from minority groups and White women who were selected through preferential treatment. The selection procedure allowed for group membership to be taken into account only after the qualifications of candidates were successfully established. Participants, 76 men from minority groups and 170 White women, worked as bus drivers or maintenance workers, which were the two job categories targeted by the affirmative action program in place. Contrary to previous studies, it was found that men and women did not differ in their reactions. Moreover, this study revealed that work related self-evaluations, work motivation, and satisfaction were contingent upon one's beliefs about affirmative action, and emotional reactions to discrimination against one's group. Theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.