Identity-Related Influences on the Success of Minority Workers in Primarily Nonminority Organizations

Abstract

In this article we review theoretical and empirical literature relating to the experiences and outcomes of minorities (ie., individuals of non-European descent) in work settings that are populated primarily by members of the majority (Le., individuals who are of European descent). We review literature on processes at the micro (Le., individual, interpersonal, and small group) and the macro (ie., organizational, societal, and cultural) levels that influence the ability of minority individuals to obtain, maintain, and succeed in positions in majority organizations. Tajfel and Turner'sSocialIdentity Theory is used as an organizational and integrative framework for this literature. Some suggestions for possible ways of countering some of the problems minority workers encounter are woven in with the review; and areas where additional conceptual and empirical work is needed are discussed.