Sarah Harmer

Previous research has examined the role of extraneous variables in simulated, computer based shooting decisions. Multiple studies in the United States have analyzed errors and reaction times from a simulated, computer based shooting task and have revealed that University students continually display shooting biases against Black individuals (shooting them more often and quicker). Research in Canada has failed to replicate these studies. The current study seeks to examine the role of multiple racial groups in shooting decisions. There are two main reasons for examining various racial groups (White, Black, Middle Eastern and East Asian). First, it is anticipated that including multiple groups may better conceal the task and may decrease socially desirable responding. Second, the inclusion of multiple groups is more representative of the study location’s population (Ottawa) and therefore will have more realism. It is anticipated that participants will make more shooting errors towards groups who have been identified in previous research as being ‘dangerous’ such as Middle Eastern and Black individuals.