Full Citation

Title: Color Differences in the Socioeconomic Status of African-American Men: Results of a Longitudinal Study

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2000

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Abstract: Using a longitudinal design that links a sample of southern-reared African American men to their childhood census records (collected in 1920), this study attempts to replicate recent findings documenting the influence of skin color on the socioeconomic attainment of African Americans. The childhood census records used in this study classify African Americans as either black or mulatto, allowing for a unique investigation of color stratification in adult life. Consistent with previous research, findings point to the importance of phenotypic characteristics in influencing the life chances of African Americans. Subjects identified as mulatto enjoyed modestly higher adult socioeconomic status compared with subjects identified as black. While the mulatto advantage attenuates slightly once origin characteristics are considered multivariate results indicate that differences in social origins are responsible for only 10 to 20 percent of the color gap in adult attainment. Findings suggest that color bias (colorism) rather than family background may be responsible for the bulk of color differences in the socioeconomic status of African American men.

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Authors: Hill, Mark E.

Periodical (Full): Social Forces

Issue: 4

Volume: 78

Pages: 1437-1460

Data Collections: IPUMS USA

Topics: Labor Force and Occupational Structure, Race and Ethnicity

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