Name Spelling and Perceived Conotations
Uploaded by Jim.Dude.2 on Apr 14, 2007
Abstract
The effects of conventional and unconventional name spelling on perceived employment suitability is to be studied. Based on theories of learning and stereotype formation and activation, it is expected that unconventionally spelled names will be rated more negatively then conventionally spelled names. 120 participants (60 male and female) will be given a job application, with either a conventionally spelled or unconventionally spelled name, and asked to rate its suitability based on specific criteria. Participants will respond using a five item, 6-point Likert scale measuring five dimensions: education, qualifications, previous experience, references and personal details. Validity and reliability measures are also discussed. It is expected that group means will show conventionally spelled names score higher then unconventionally spelled names. Suggesting that unconventionally spelled names can facilitate negative personality appraisal, as congruent with previous research. Conclusions about methodological assumptions and implications are discussed.
The Effect of Name Spelling on Perceived Employment Suitability
Wading through the vast wealth of possible first names is a time consuming and arduous journey that every parent must face, and in many cases, some parents prefer to select unusual or unconventional names in the hope of making their child uniquely different. In doing so however, they may inadvertently burden the child with a range of negative connotations often associated with unconventional names. For example, individuals with uncommon names are often rated as less intelligent and less desirable by their peers (Levine & Willis, 1994). To counter this, many parents select names with unusual spelling, in the hope of retaining unique qualities within the name without exposing their child to the negative effects of unconventional naming. Studies have shown however, that unconventional spelling may exert the same negative effects as unconventional naming (Mehrabian & Piercy, 1993).
An unconventional name is one that employs a culturally unusual or uncommon word, title or phrase (Cook, Lounsbury & Fontenelle, 1980). Similarly, unconventionally spelled names are those that employ cultural unusual spelling of commonly accepted names (Mehrabian & Piercy, 1993). Emily, for example, is the commonly accepted spelling in current English language, whereas Emilie is a cultural variant.
That unconventional spelling should exert a negative influence over perception is a logical expectation. Associative learning theory, for example, holds that as the individual interacts with their environment, they will be reinforced to engage in behaviours and situations the result in positive outcomes and to avoid those that result in negative outcomes (Klein & Mowrer,...