Language-based exclusion and prosocial behaviors in organizations

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Human Resource Management

Abstract

Organizations can be seen as amalgams of languages that can serve as a sourceof divisive tensions among employees. In our conceptual model, we draw uponsocial identity and social exclusion research to propose that linguistic diver-sity increases the potential for language-based exclusion in multilingual worksettings. Language may cue listeners to ethnic or cultural stereotypes as wellas negatively affect perceptions of speakers’ competence, leading listeners toexclude speakers of certain languages. We contend that when excluded, percep-tion of oneself can be cast in an antagonistic relation to perceptions of others,with detrimental effects on prosocial behaviors. Perceptions of procedural unfair-ness, a weakened identity, and impaired mood serve to amplify the associationbetween language-based exclusion and prosocial behaviors. However, organi-zational factors such as positive diversity climate may mitigate experiences withlanguage-based exclusion. We outline an agenda for future research and discussimplications for human resource practice.

Publication Date

24-9-2014

Publisher

Wiley-Liss Inc.

Volume

Vol.54

Issue

Iss.4

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