Trends in Discrimination in Hiring Practices against Individuals with Criminal Records: A Meta-Analysis of Field Experiments

• In Event: Understanding and Addressing Discrimination in Employment against Individuals with Criminal Records

Abstract

Discrimination against individuals with criminal records might not only be unfair and unjust, but may also be inefficient and counterproductive for discriminating organizations. Research on the collateral consequences of criminal records remain indebted to Devah Pager's seminal audit study in the US, published over two decades ago. Yet, numerous studies both preceding and following Pager's work have shed light on the complexities surrounding employers’ reaction against individuals with a criminal history. The current study presents the first meta-analysis of field experiments examining discrimination against individuals with criminal records in the domain of employment. Drawing from an extensive review encompassing over 25 field experiments conducted in eight countries between 1959 and 2022, and involving more than 20,000 job applications, we assess the extent to which levels of discrimination have changed over time and place, and we also consider heterogeneity in discrimination by racial-ethnic origin, gender, offense type, and job category. This research will consider the need for targeted interventions and policy reforms to address systemic biases and to promote fair and equitable hiring practices worldwide.

Authors

• David Kirk, University of Pennsylvania

• Marti Rovira, Universitat Pompeu Fabra

• Michael Vuolo, The Ohio State University