Navigating Heroic Expectations: How Positive Stereotypes Impact Veterans’ Occupational Outcomes

Abstract

In American culture, military service is often revered and celebrated, yet veterans frequently face higher rates of unemployment and underemployment compared to non-veterans. To delve into this phenomenon, our research draws on theories of positive stereotypes and negotiation to explore how seemingly favorable perceptions might disadvantage veterans in the hiring process. Through eight studies, we uncover a pervasive belief among the general public that veterans are not subject to hiring disadvantages, despite evidence to the contrary (Barrera & Carter, 2017; Boatwright & Roberts, 2020). While individuals generally regard veterans as desirable hires deserving equal compensation to non-veterans, they also perceive veterans as more likely to accept lower starting salaries than their non-veteran counterparts. Consequently, this belief leads to lower salary offers, potentially impacting veterans' future earnings and job satisfaction. Additionally, our findings suggest a perception that veterans are less inclined to negotiate compared to non-veterans, further complicating their employment prospects. Finally, our investigation into the influence of negotiation and veteran status on likability and perceived fit for leadership roles reveals a nuanced dynamic wherein negotiation diminishes likability and perceived fit for leadership type roles, particularly for veterans. Our research highlights a real-world scenario where the adverse effects of positive stereotypes on veterans may be overlooked, underscoring the need for greater awareness and scrutiny of such biases in employment practices.