Description

The Symbolic Racism Scale (SRS-7) is a psychological measurement tool used to assess the extent of symbolic racism in individuals. Symbolic racism is characterized by a form of racism that is subtle and indirect, typically manifesting in the belief that racial minorities are not subjected to discrimination but rather are violating traditional values and demanding undeserved advantages. The SRS-7 consists of seven items that gauge respondents’ attitudes toward policies and social conditions that affect racial minorities, particularly African Americans. Each item on the scale is designed to reflect the underlying components of symbolic racism, such as the denial of continuing discrimination, antagonism toward demands for equality, and resentment toward preferential treatment.

Analysis and Use of Data

The SRS-7 data can be analyzed using various statistical techniques to explore the prevalence and intensity of symbolic racism within a population. Commonly, responses are scored on a Likert scale, with higher scores indicating higher levels of symbolic racism. Data analysis typically involves:
Descriptive Statistics: Calculating mean scores, standard deviations, and frequency distributions to provide an overall picture of the symbolic racism levels within the sample.
Reliability Analysis: Employing Cronbach’s alpha to assess the internal consistency of the scale, ensuring that the items reliably measure the same underlying construct.
Factor Analysis: Conducting exploratory or confirmatory factor analysis to determine whether the items load onto a single factor or multiple factors, providing insight into the dimensionality of symbolic racism.
Correlation and Regression Analysis: Examining relationships between SRS-7 scores and other variables, such as demographic factors (e.g., age, education, political orientation) to understand the predictors of symbolic racism.
Comparative Analysis: Comparing SRS-7 scores across different groups (e.g., racial groups, political affiliations) to identify significant differences in symbolic racism levels.

Calibration

Calibration of the SRS-7 involves validating the scale to ensure it accurately measures symbolic racism across different populations. This process typically includes:
Item Analysis: Assessing each item for its ability to discriminate between individuals with high and low levels of symbolic racism. Poorly performing items may be revised or removed.
Cross-Cultural Validation: Ensuring the scale is applicable in different cultural contexts by conducting validation studies in diverse populations and languages.
Norming: Establishing normative data for the SRS-7 by collecting large samples from various demographic groups, which allows for the comparison of individual scores to a broader population baseline.
Bias Analysis: Investigating potential biases in the scale, such as whether the scale is more likely to produce higher scores in certain demographic groups due to factors unrelated to symbolic racism.

Bibliography

Here is a list of key references and readings related to the Symbolic Racism Scale (SRS-7):
Henry, P. J., & Sears, D. O. (2002). “The Symbolic Racism 2000 Scale.” Political Psychology, 23(2), 253-283.
This paper provides the foundational theory and validation of the Symbolic Racism 2000 Scale, which laid the groundwork for later versions, including the SRS-7.
Sears, D. O., & Henry, P. J. (2005). “Over Thirty Years Later: A Contemporary Look at Symbolic Racism and Its Impact.” Political Psychology, 26(5), 747-780.
An analysis of the evolution of symbolic racism and its measurement over time, emphasizing the relevance and stability of the concept in contemporary society.
Tarman, C., & Sears, D. O. (2005). “The Conceptualization and Measurement of Symbolic Racism.” Journal of Politics, 67(3), 731-761.
A comprehensive discussion on the theoretical underpinnings of symbolic racism and the development of scales to measure it.
Kinder, D. R., & Sanders, L. M. (1996). Divided by Color: Racial Politics and Democratic Ideals. University of Chicago Press.
A book exploring the intersection of race and politics in the United States, with significant discussion on symbolic racism and its effects on public opinion and policy preferences.
Sears, D. O. (1988). “Symbolic Racism.” In Katz, P. A., & Taylor, D. A. (Eds.), Eliminating Racism: Profiles in Controversy (pp. 53-84). Springer.
An earlier but influential work on the concept of symbolic racism, detailing its origins and manifestations in society.