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Against the odds: Developing underdog versus favorite narratives to offset prior experiences of discrimination

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  • Nurmohamed, Samir
  • Kundro, Timothy G.
  • Myers, Christopher G.

Abstract

Although considerable theory and research indicates that prior experiences of discrimination hinder individuals, it remains unclear what individuals can do to offset these repercussions in the context of their work and career. We introduce two distinct types of self-narratives—underdog and favorite—and test whether these types of personal stories shape the effects of prior experiences of discrimination on performance efficacy, which in turn impact performance. Across two time-lagged experiments with job seekers in both field and online settings, we theorize and find that underdog narratives are more effective than favorite narratives at moderating the effects of prior experiences of discrimination on performance through performance efficacy. Our results present new insights for theory and research on expectations, self-narratives, and resilience in the face of discrimination and adversity.

Suggested Citation

  • Nurmohamed, Samir & Kundro, Timothy G. & Myers, Christopher G., 2021. "Against the odds: Developing underdog versus favorite narratives to offset prior experiences of discrimination," Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Elsevier, vol. 167(C), pages 206-221.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jobhdp:v:167:y:2021:i:c:p:206-221
    DOI: 10.1016/j.obhdp.2021.04.008
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    1. Teng Iat Loi & Zhiyu Feng & Kristine M. Kuhn & Thomas M. Tripp, 2022. "When and How Underdog Expectations Promote Cheating Behavior: The Roles of Need Fulfillment and General Self-efficacy," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 181(2), pages 375-395, November.
    2. Karren Knowlton, 2025. "Trailblazing Motivation and Marginalized Group Members: Changing Expectations to Pave the Way for Others," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 36(1), pages 477-513, January.
    3. Lee Cunningham, Julia J. & Cable, Daniel M. & Petriglieri, Gianpiero & Sherman, David K., 2023. "Advances in self-narratives in, across, and beyond organizations," Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Elsevier, vol. 176(C).

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