Description of the Scale

The Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS-19) is a tool designed to measure frequent and everyday instances of discrimination experienced by individuals based on race, gender, ethnicity, or other identity characteristics. The scale focuses on discriminatory events that are common in daily life and can have negative consequences for individuals’ mental and physical health.

Data Analysis and Usage

The EDS-19 includes 19 questions that assess the frequency and severity of discriminatory incidents. Each question relates to specific situations or interactions that may be harmful or offensive. Participants are asked to report how often they have experienced these situations on a scale typically ranging from “never” to “always.”

Data analysis involves calculating averages and statistical indicators, such as standard deviation, to estimate the general experience of discrimination within population samples. Comparisons between different groups (e.g., gender, ethnic group) may also be conducted to identify potential differences in experienced discrimination.

Objective

The primary goal of the EDS-19 is to provide a quantitative measurement of the everyday discrimination experienced by individuals. By using this scale, researchers and practitioners can gain a better understanding of the impact of discrimination on mental health, well-being, and social conditions. The scale can be used to identify areas needing intervention and support, as well as to assess the effectiveness of anti-discrimination policies and programs.

Scoring

The scoring of the EDS-19 is based on the reported frequency of discrimination for each question. Each question is typically rated on a scale from 1 (never) to 5 (always). Scores are summed to provide a total score, which can be used to understand the level of discrimination experienced. Higher scores indicate greater frequency and severity of discrimination.

Bibliography

Williams, D. R., Yu, Y., Jackson, J. S., & Anderson, N. B. (1997). Racial differences in physical and mental health: A synthesis of research findings. American Psychologist, 52(4), 455-466. doi:10.1037/0003-066X.52.4.455

Williams, D. R., & Mohammed, S. A. (2009). Discrimination and racial disparities in health: Evidence and needed research. Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 32(1), 20-47. doi:10.1007/s10865-008-9185-0

Paradies, Y., & Williams, D. R. (2008). A systematic review of interventions designed to reduce discrimination and its impact on health. BMC Public Health, 8(1), 247. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-8-247

Borrell, L. N., & Kiefe, C. I. (2004). Race, ethnicity, and the perception of discrimination: The role of health and health behavior. American Journal of Public Health, 94(6), 1075-1081. doi:10.2105/AJPH.94.6.1075