Mixed Methods Study Explores Decreasing Inequality in the US and EU Workplace

• In Event: 2248 - Mixed Methods: Empirical Exemplars and Methodology

Abstract

Worldwide, national policies have been redirected towards a social exclusion agenda. Organizations need to eliminate social exclusion in a holistic way. Successful development and management of workforce diversity could become a viable path to preserve and enhance organizational long-term market relevance and reputation. Grounded in organizational theory, this mixed methods study explores social exclusion in the US and Europe looking at both the individual and national levels. Using data from the International Social Survey Program (ISSP), we first examined perceptions and concerns about discrimination in the workplace, and then by using specific law and regulations in the US, EU and in a selected EU country (Germany), we tried to explain the quantitative data. Findings indicate that despite relevant isomorphism (numerous laws), discrimination is still a significant problem. Finally, the study compared characteristics of individuals reporting discrimination in Germany and USA.

Authors

• Antigoni Papadimitriou, WKU

• Lisa Stickney, University of Baltimore

• Liudvika Leisyte, TU Dortmund University