Every Day Discrimination Scale (EDDS)

Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDDS)

Please indicate how often you have experienced the following situations.

Use the following scale:

• 0 = Never

• 1 = Rarely

• 2 = Sometimes

• 3 = Often

For each item, choose the response that best reflects your experience.

1. You are treated with less courtesy than other people.

2. You are treated with less respect than other people.

3. You receive poorer service than other people at restaurants or stores.

4. People act as if they think you are not smart.

5. People act as if they are better than you.

6. You are threatened or harassed.

7. You receive poorer service or treatment than other people from doctors or hospitals.

8. People act as if they are afraid of you.

9. You are called names or insulted.

10. You are followed around in stores.

Scoring: To calculate your EDDS score, add up your responses to each item. The total score can range from 0 to 30, with higher scores indicating a higher frequency of everyday discrimination experiences:

• 0-10: Low Frequency

  A low score on the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDDS) typically indicates that an individual has experienced a lower frequency of everyday discrimination and microaggressions in their life. In other words, they perceive and report fewer instances of subtle or overt discrimination in their day-to-day experiences. This suggests a lower exposure to stressors related to discrimination, which may have implications for their mental and physical well-being.

  Does a lower score mean that the person is "safe" from the effects of racism?

  No, a lower score on the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDDS) does not necessarily mean that a person is "safe" from the effects of racism. While a lower score indicates that the individual has reported fewer instances of everyday discrimination and microaggressions, it does not imply immunity to the effects of racism.

  Racism can manifest in various forms, and individuals may experience it differently. Some may face overt discrimination, while others may encounter subtler forms of bias. Even those with lower EDDS scores may still be affected by systemic racism, structural inequalities, and other societal factors that impact their well-being.

  It's important to recognize that racism can have far-reaching and pervasive effects on individuals and communities, regardless of their EDDS scores. A lower score might indicate a lower frequency of reported incidents, but it does not eliminate the broader influence of racism on one's life and well-being.

• 11-20: Moderate Frequency

  A moderate frequency on the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDDS) suggests that an individual has reported experiencing a moderate level of everyday discrimination and microaggressions in their life. It falls within the mid-range of the scale, indicating that the frequency of perceived discriminatory incidents is neither very low nor very high.

  A moderate frequency on the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDDS) doesn't inherently imply that a situation is "good" or "bad." It simply reflects the individual's self-reported perception of experiencing a moderate level of everyday discrimination and microaggressions.

  Whether this is considered a positive or negative situation depends on the impact these experiences have on the individual's well-being and quality of life. Some people may feel adequately equipped to handle and navigate moderate-frequency discrimination, while others may find it more challenging.

  In general, what's important is how individuals respond to their experiences. If someone feels balanced, resilient, and capable of managing the impact of discrimination, that can be seen as a positive indicator of their coping skills. On the other hand, if someone is feeling distressed, overwhelmed, or negatively affected, seeking support, developing coping strategies, and fostering resilience become important aspects of addressing these challenges.

• 21-30: High Frequency

  A high score on the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDDS) typically indicates that an individual has experienced a higher frequency of everyday discrimination and microaggressions in their life. In other words, they perceive and report more instances of subtle or overt discrimination in their day-to-day experiences. This can suggest a greater exposure to stressors related to discrimination, which may have implications for their mental and physical well-being.

  For those with high scores, it reveals the constant and multifaceted racism that you might be encountering. 

  A high score on the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDDS) typically indicates that you have experienced a higher frequency of everyday discrimination and microaggressions in your life.  

  In other words, you perceive and report more instances of subtle or overt discrimination in your day-to-day experiences. This can suggest a greater exposure to stressors related to discrimination, which may have damaging effects on your mental and physical well-being.

  This awareness is the first step in acknowledging and addressing the stress and trauma that come with such experiences.

Thank you for taking this test.