How college students understand American meritocracy: From initial beliefs to emerging meanings.

Journal of Counseling Psychology 2026

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Authors: Yunkyoung Loh Garrison, Christopher Draper, Tamaki Hashiramoto, Sarah Pearl, Charles D. Cederberg
DOI: 10.1037/cou0000859
Cited by: 0

Abstract

= 13). Although both groups show a similar thematic trajectory, the nuances differ. Within each group, participants' other identities are also highlighted. Our findings underscore the importance of facilitating college students' critical reflection on meritocracy and social class identities and of making these reflections and conversations a normal part of campus life as a means to support their development. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).

Fields of Study & Subjects

Higher Education Research Studies Social and Cultural Dynamics Intergenerational and Educational Inequality Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Counseling Psychology
Volume
73
Issue
3
Pages
419–434
Publication date
2 February 2026
Language
EN