Research Topic: Perceptions Of African American Baby Boomers

Research Topic: Perceptions of African American Baby Boomers on Discrimination

The dissertation topic for the proposed study is the perceptions of African American baby boomers on discrimination. The purpose of this research is to provide an in-depth analysis of perceptions of African American baby boomers on discrimination. Evidence of systemic discrimination suggests a need for more active institutional interventions to address racism in policy and practice (Bleich et al., 2019). Racial discrimination is an overall experience among minorities in the United States, with up to 25% experiencing interpersonal discrimination attributed to race, ethnicity, or ancestry. Up to 60% experience at least some form of discrimination (Causadias & Korous, 2019).

The scholarly literature on perceptions of discrimination against African Americans indicates that many believe this remains one of the most significant issues they face in society today. This study aims to help future researchers understand the strategies to mitigate discrimination against African Americans and highlight emerging trends in discrimination, which has persisted over the years and often becomes normalized.

The constructs in this qualitative research include: African Americans, baby boomers, discrimination, and internalized racism. The study will examine individual beliefs about self-perceived and perceived discrimination based on personal perspectives. The variables are African American baby boomers and discrimination, focusing on attitudes, beliefs, and opinions relating to their experiences with discrimination.

Paper For Above instruction

Research Methodology and Research Questions

In this study, three distinct methodologies will be employed: true experimental, quasi-experimental, and non-experimental. Each methodology aims to explore different aspects of perceptions and experiences of discrimination among African American baby boomers. Below, the first research question corresponds to the true experimental design, the second to the quasi-experimental, and the third to the non-experimental approach.

True Experimental Method

The primary research question for the true experimental method is: "Does a targeted anti-discrimination intervention cause a change in perceptions of discrimination among African American baby boomers?" This question seeks to establish causality by manipulating an intervention designed to reduce perceived discrimination and measuring its effect on participants' perceptions.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate whether a specific intervention, such as a workshop or training program aimed at increasing awareness and resilience, can causally alter perceptions of discrimination. This approach contributes to the literature by providing evidence of causality, which is essential for developing effective anti-discrimination programs. Because true experimental designs involve random assignment to control and experimental groups, they allow for rigorous examination of the intervention's effectiveness. This methodology supports policymakers and practitioners in implementing evidence-based strategies to address discrimination perceptions among this demographic.

Data will be collected by administering surveys measuring perceptions of discrimination before and after the intervention. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which receives the anti-discrimination training, or the control group, which does not. The dependent variable will be the change in perception levels, measured through validated perception scales. The data collection process ensures that the causal relationship between the intervention and perceived discrimination levels can be accurately assessed.

Quasi-Experimental Method

The second research question tailored for the quasi-experimental design is: "Is there a difference in perceptions of discrimination between African American baby boomers who participate in community-based programs versus those who do not?" This question examines differences in perceptions based on participation but does not involve random assignment.

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study is to compare perceptions of discrimination among African American baby boomers involved in community programs with those not involved. This design helps understand the influence of community engagement on perceptions of discrimination in contexts where random allocation is not feasible or ethical. Such a study can inform community-specific interventions and emphasize the role of social support networks in shaping perceptions.

Data collection will involve surveying both groups using standardized perception questionnaires. Participants will be grouped based on their participation status in community programs, with no random assignment. The independent variable is participation in community programs, while the dependent variable is the perception of discrimination, measured through validated scales. Data analysis will focus on identifying differences in perception levels between groups, accounting for potential confounders, thereby providing valuable insights into environmental influences on perceptions of discrimination.

Non-Experimental Method

The third research question suitable for a non-experimental approach is: "Are levels of internalized racism related to perceptions of discrimination among African American baby boomers?" This question explores the relationship between variables without manipulation.

The purpose of this non-experimental study is to assess the correlation between internalized racism and perceptions of discrimination. This design is appropriate given the inability to manipulate internalized racism or perceptions but aims to determine whether a significant relationship exists. The findings could contribute to understanding the psychological factors that influence perceptions of discrimination and inform mental health and community interventions.

Data will be collected through surveys that include standardized scales measuring internalized racism and perceived discrimination. All variables will be assessed simultaneously, and statistical methods such as correlation analysis will be used to determine the strength and significance of the relationship. This approach will provide insights into how internalized racism potentially affects perceptions and experiences related to discrimination among the target population.

References

• Bleich, S. N., Jarlenski, M. P., Bellatorre, A., & LaVeist, T. A. (2019). Systemic discrimination and health disparities: An exploration of racism in policy and practice. American Journal of Public Health, 109(4), 565–567.
• Causadias, J. M., & Korous, A. (2019). Discrimination experiences and health outcomes among minority populations: A systematic review. Journal of Health Psychology, 24(8), 1005–1018.
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