Changing perceptions in the justification of the use of the “N” word through community service work experiences: Offensive comments or terms of endearment?

Authors

August John Hoffman, Metropolitan State University
Julie Wallach, Metropolitan State University
Mark Graham, Metropolitan State University
Eduardo Sanchez, Metropolitan State University

Keywords

Cultural pluralism; Educational attainment; Ethnic attitudes; Race awareness; Social perception

Abstract

The current study explored how students (N = 181) enrolled in different levels of higher education perceive the appropriateness in the use of the “N” word today. We hypothesized that ethnic minority students who were actively involved in a community service project designed to improve a community college would be more likely to reject the use of the “N” word than those students who were not involved in a community service project. Results indicate significant differences exist among educational levels and the perception of the justification of the use of the “N” word, t (83) = 4.49, p < .0001. Participants enrolled in higher education (graduate level) and community service activities were more likely to reject the use of the “N” word.