DEPRIVATION AT WORK: POSITIVE WORKPLACE EXPERIENCES AND THE RACIAL GAP IN QUIT INTENTIONS

We highlight the unique role of deprivation—i.e., missing out on positive work experiences—in shaping the racial gap in quit intentions. We predict, and empirically demonstrate, that deprivation of positive experiences in the workplace increases racial minorities’ turnover intentions, independent of the presence of negative experiences. Across a nationally representative sample (Study 1; N = 6,823), and a national sample of teachers (Study 2; N= 21,156), non-white workers are exposed to more negative and less positive workplace experiences compared to their white counterparts. In both samples, deprivation of positive experiences mediates approximately 10-15% of the difference in quit intentions between White and non-White groups. We discuss the theoretical implications of these findings as well as the practical implications for diversity and inclusion efforts.