Nursery World - Children learn to hide prejudice, says study

Research showing that children learn to 'use mental control' so they do not give public vent to ethnic prejudices reinforces the need for all nurseries and schools to have effective anti-racist policies, according to a leading early years consultant. Gina Houston, vice-chair of Early Years Equality and director of a Sure Start programme in the London borough of Brent, said, 'Children learn to control their racism, particularly in the presence of an adult such as a teacher.'

Gina Houston, vice-chair of Early Years Equality and director of a Sure Start programme in the London borough of Brent, said, 'Children learn to control their racism, particularly in the presence of an adult such as a teacher.'

Ms Houston was commenting on research sponsored by the Educational and Social Research Council and led by Dr Adam Rutland of the University of Kent's Psychology Department. His study involved splitting 155 white children aged between six and 16 into groups according to how acceptable they found social discrimination.

They were questioned about several scenarios where black people were victims of discrimination, with some told that their responses were being filmed.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included