This study examined the relationship between group racial composition and group performance by manipulating individual perceptions of group racial composition using single gender, virtual teams communicating via the Internet. This unique methodology separated the actual racial composition of the group from its perceived racial diversity. I also explored the role of conflict as an intervening variable in the relationship between group racial diversity and group performance. Consistent with previous research, results supported a significant relationship between perceived racial diversity and interpersonal conflict. However, other hypothesized relationships failed to reach statistical significance, including the interaction effect of perceived and actual racial diversity on group performance of a decision making task.
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