People like me don’t belong here: Concealing a stigmatized identity is associated with negative workplace experiences
Newheiser, AK; Barreto, M; Tiemersma, J
Date: 19 June 2017
Article
Journal
Journal of Social Issues
Publisher
Wiley
Publisher DOI
Abstract
In two studies, we examined the impact of concealing (vs. revealing) a stigmatized identity in the
context of a recalled or imagined social interaction with one’s coworkers. We propose that
although people may choose to conceal stigmatized identities in order to increase their chances
of acceptance and belonging, identity concealment ...
In two studies, we examined the impact of concealing (vs. revealing) a stigmatized identity in the
context of a recalled or imagined social interaction with one’s coworkers. We propose that
although people may choose to conceal stigmatized identities in order to increase their chances
of acceptance and belonging, identity concealment in fact reduces feelings of belonging and
results in negative work-related outcomes. Participants possessing a concealable stigmatized
identity (in Study 1: LGB identity, N=95; in Study 2, LGBT identity, history of mental illness,
history of physical illness, or history of poverty, N=303) were randomly assigned to recall or
imagine concealing or revealing their identity at work. We found that concealing (vs. revealing)
the identity reduced felt belonging in the recalled or imagined situation, collective self-esteem,
job satisfaction, and work-related commitment. Thus, despite its promise to protect individuals
against workplace discrimination, identity concealment is associated with deleterious outcomes.
Psychology - old structure
Collections of Former Colleges
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