Development of a Measure of Students of Color's Reactions to Racialized Aggressions on Social Media

• In Event: Theoretical and Methodological Potentialities

Abstract

Social media are integral to the college student experience. Though quantitative measures exist to assess the prevalence and effects of in-person racialized aggressions on students of color, scholars have called for researchers to specifically investigate racism students face in online environments (e.g., Daniels, 2012). This pilot study responded to this call, and sought to develop and validate an instrument to examine students’ of color encounters with racialized aggressions on social media, and the influence of these encounters on their experiences with a sample of 36 students. Results indicate that the survey scales are reliable, and cognitive interviews indicate that the survey is a valid tool to measure racialized aggressions. Implications for future research and professional practice are discussed.

Authors

• Adam M McCready, Salem State University

• Heather T. Rowan-Kenyon, Boston College

• Kevin Gin, Boston College

• Ana M. Martinez-Aleman, Boston College

• Nicole I. Barone, Boston College