Locus of Rater-Ratee Race Effects as Influenced by Rating Source

Abstract

This study examines the impact of both rater and ratee race on job performance ratings. Traditionally, the true nature of race-based distortions to performance ratings is difficult to ascertain due to a lack of true score in performance. By utilizing a series of walk-through performance measures, Cronbach's (1955) accuracy components were used to determine the true nature of race-based distortions. Overall, the majority-member supervisors did not deflate the ratings of minority-members. In fact, the ratings of minority-members were inflated by both source levels; and peers inflated ratings significantly more when compared to supervisors. Moreover, majority members were rated accurately by both supervisors and peers. The implications of this and the potential reasons for it are discussed.