Downward and intraclass comparisons protect the self-esteem of low-status groups

Evidence

More generally, theorizing about the damaging psychological effects of being a target of prejudice, discrimination, and stigma was widespread following Allport’s book, but empirical research since 1954 has had diffi- culty confirming the damaged self-esteem hypothesis. Indeed, based on several studies that support the positive self-esteem of Blacks, Twenge and Crocker (2002) provided a comprehensive meta-analysis that compellingly makes the opposite case. They found that Blacks, on average, have higher self-esteem than Whites, who in turn have higher self-esteem than Asians, American Indians, and Hispanics. Moreover, the Black–White self-esteem gap has actually increased since 1980. — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1064 (#complicates, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: Lower-status workers maintain self-esteem by claiming superiority in non-material goods. — John T. Jost and Jim Sidanius, Political Psychology: Key Readings, 2179; Grades reward social conformity more than cognitive achievement — Samuel Bowles and Herbert Gintis, Schooling in Capitalist America:…, 495; Class background shapes whether students believe their voices deserve academic respect — bell hooks, Teaching to Transgress: Education as…, 285 (+17 more)

Broader Connections

• Racial group differences in self-esteem reverse the expected hierarchy #complicates (0.75) — , Rudman, Laurie A - On the Nature of…, 1064