A Cycle or a Ceiling? The Cumulative Effects of Subtle Discrimination Through the Lens of Performance Management

Abstract

We agree that the impact of subtle discrimination spawns from a dynamic process containing inherent cyclical elements, and we applaud the focal article's effort to provide clarity to a murky arena. More nefarious than the cycle, however, is the continued and typically unchecked presence of subtle discrimination in the workplace, which affords a clear path for prolonged and compounding negative effects. Although Jones, Arena, Nittrouer, Alonso, and Lindsey (2017) touch on the potential for cumulative effects of subtle discrimination, we believe they missed an opportunity. The potential for cumulative effects of subtle discrimination to severely limit the career success of women and minorities is substantial and not well diagnosed (Agars, 2004). Building on their point, we wish to draw greater attention to this concern and articulate how the cumulative effects of subtle discrimination undermine the impact of performance management and limit the development and advancement of individuals from stigmatized groups.