Introduction
One of the least-discussed biases and one of the most difficult to prove is height discrimination also known as “heightism”. It’s difficult for anyone, even those of “normal” or above-average stature, to believe they have ever harbored or profited from biases based on height. Nonetheless, studies reveal that status has real, albeit slightly distinct, effects on both men and women on a professional level. According to studies, height influences income because recruiters choose taller candidates and height affects prospects for promotion. According to research, taller people are seen as more “leader-like,” dominating, educated, and healthy; tall males are also more likely to hold managerial jobs. This has evolved into an implicit bias that people may unconsciously harbor or even internalize. Yet it is precisely this covertness that makes it so challenging to eradicate.
The impact on career
While challenging to identify, Height discrimination (heightism) has significant, quantifiable effects on workers’ achievement. Research on systemic discrimination in hiring practices shows that employers may unconsciously associate positive workplace traits like competence, confidence, and physical ability with taller candidates, leading them to reject shorter candidates even if their resumes are comparable. Additionally, meta-analysis reveals that height is positively correlated with promotion rates after being employed. Studies from the UK, China, and the US suggest that there may also be a correlation between height and salary differences, although the specific figures differ.
In contrast to tall men, tall women face discrimination. Research on tall female college students suggests that their height can unintentionally intimidate others, especially men who might view them as a threat. On the other hand, men are more susceptible to heightism. Shorter women experience less pressure than taller women to earn a higher wage premium. This may be because women who are slightly shorter than average are often characterized as “little” or “petite.”
Of course, heightism doesn’t just show in how others view someone from the outside. Other height-related characteristics may also influence behavior, which may have an impact on workplace outcomes. Many experts contend that height is simply rewarded on the job market and is actually positively correlated with cognitive capacity. The more important question is whether shorter people may have experienced prejudice in a way that negatively impacted their sense of self-worth, mental health, and emotional stability, all of which can influence promotions and salary. In fact to grow taller some people with short stature take Height supplements such as Growth Factor Plus and even prescription medications such as HGH and some may go as far as getting height increasing surgeries.
Case in point, taller kids may have better self-esteem because they have more opportunities to participate in team-building activities at school, whereas shorter kids might have been bullied, which results in less improved social skills and poorer self-confidence. Similar to how being tall can boost confidence and create a self-fulfilling prophecy, being tall can also inspire other accomplishments, such as in the area of romance or perceived attractiveness.
Finding effective strategies to combat heightism may be difficult given how pervasive and subtle it is. Only a few jurisdictions now have height-related laws in place. Regulations prohibit listing height as a prerequisite unless it is a genuine occupational need necessary for the regular functioning of the business. However, despite the existence of the law, very few cases are actually filed. In addition, data are required since height discrimination is difficult to detect. Several businesses currently maintain data on gender and ethnicity so they can monitor inclusion and advancement at businesses.
Conclusion
The battle against heightism will take time. In general, the issue won’t be solved as long as people continue to think that success, leadership, and even prejudice, appear a certain way. As corny as it may sound, change ultimately comes from within by confronting hidden prejudices and self-correcting when people find themselves elevating height.