Discrimination

Questions on work-related discrimination were fielded in 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1989, and 1995. In general, respondents indicated whether they had experienced a particular type of discrimination (age, race, religion, nationality, or sex). If a respondent experienced any type of discrimination, a follow-up question elicited information on the type(s) of discriminatory practice experienced (e.g., the respondent believed that she was not hired, interviewed, or promoted; was demoted or laid off; or was paid less for the same work).

As Table 4.7.1 indicates, information on the various types of work-related discrimination and discriminatory practices has been collected across survey years. The reference period for 1972-89 was the five-year period preceding each interview. In 1995, the reference period was since the date of last interview.

Table 4.7.1 Types of Work-Related Discrimination Data by Survey Year

	Survey Year
Type of Discrimination	72	77	82	87	89	95
Age	*	*	*	*	*	*
Sex	*	*	*	*	*	*
Race	*	*	*	*	*	*
Religion	*	*	*	*	*	*
Nationality	*	*	*	*	*	*
Marital Status		*	*	*	*	*
Health/Handicap/Disability		*	*	*	*	*
Weight						*
Sexual Orientation						*
AIDS						*

Survey Instruments: Discrimination questions can be found in the “Retrospective Work History,” “Work Attitudes,” and “Attitudes” sections of the questionnaires.

User Notes: From 1982-89, the format of the discrimination questions shifted from a single “most important” response to that of a “mark all that apply.” These multiple responses have been coded in a geometric progression; users should refer to section 3.3, “Mature Women Codebook System,” and Appendix C in this guide for more information. In 1995, the question format shifted again; respondents were asked to give a yes or no response for each type of discrimination. Therefore, answers are no longer coded in a geometric progression.

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