Perceived Discrimination, Work Attitudes, and Labor Market Experience

摘要

The study examines the process by which labor market discrimination influences work attitudes and in turn labor market outcomes. Using the National Longitudinal Surveys (Young Men's Cohort) a two equation model is developed to estimate both the direct effect and perceived discrimination on labor market experience as well as the indirect effect on such experience via the influence of these perceptions on work attitudes (locus of control). The results suggest no direct effects of perceived discrimination on wages, employment levels or employment stability. Young blacks who perceived themselves as victims of racial discrimination, however, developed significantly more deleterious work attitudes and as a result earned slightly (3%) lower wages.