Relationship between cynical hostility and socioeconomic status from educational perspective. Preliminary research
Authors: Monika Mokosińska, Artur Sawicki, Paweł Andrzej Atroszko
Abstract: Studies systematically show that socioeconomic status (SES) is related to many psychological variables and well-being, including health. Today more researches than ever is conducted in order to identify causes and consequences of social and economic inequalities. More and more investments are made in programs of interventions directed to improve the situation of socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between socioeconomic status and cynical hostility, which is a trait characterized by negative attitude toward others, mistrustfulness and ill will. It was hypothesised that low SES, particularly low SES in childhood is positively related to cynical hostility among university students. The study was conducted among 244 students (151 women, 89 men, 4 people did not report gender), with mean age M = 21.33 (SD = 2.80). Cynical hostility was measured by Cook-Medley Hostility Inventory – Brief, a short version of Hostility Scale (Cook & Medley 1954). Hierarchical regression analysis showed that childhood SES was related to cynical hostility in adulthood. From the educational perspective cynical hostility is a trait which can squander social capital and the potential of young people. Education process is based on relations with teachers and peers, and distrust may hinder both of them.
Publ: Research and Development of Young Scientists in Poland. Humanities and social sciences