Do Differences Matter? Understanding Demography-Related Effects in Organisations

Abstract

This paper reviews a stream of research that examines the processes underlying effects related to demography and demographic differences. Three broad areas of research are discussed: (i) research examining whether differences in functional experience have an effect on how individuals view and interpret situations, (ii) research that examines whether and how dissimilarity in terms of demographic characteristics such as functional background, race, sex and age influences interpersonal dynamics and individual attitudes and behaviours, and (iii) research examining if effects related to work status dissimilarity parallel those of other demographic variables. We conclude with a discussion of avenues for future research, and managerial implications of this research.