Unintended residential segregation

Date and country of first publication

2014
Netherlands

Definition

Unintended residential segregation refers to the separation of different racial or ethnic groups in residential areas as a result of socioeconomic disparities and historical patterns of discrimination, rather than explicit policies or actions that aim to segregate communities. It occurs when individuals or groups sort themselves into neighborhoods based on preferences or constraints without intentionally seeking or promoting segregation.

There are several factors that contribute to unintended residential segregation, including:

1. Historical discrimination: Long-standing patterns of housing discrimination, such as redlining or discriminatory lending practices, have disproportionately affected certain racial or ethnic groups, leading to the concentration of these groups in specific neighborhoods or areas.

2. Economic disparities: Limited access to economic opportunities, lower wages, and wealth disparities can influence where people can afford to live, resulting in distinct racial or ethnic enclaves. Residential segregation perpetuates economic disparities, as segregated neighborhoods often lack resources and opportunities for upward mobility.

3. Neighborhood preference: People tend to live among peers or those with similar backgrounds, often preferring to be in communities with individuals of the same race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. This self-segregation can reinforce existing disparities and perpetuate residential segregation unintentionally.

4. Housing market dynamics: Market forces, including housing costs, availability, and quality, can influence residential patterns. In areas where affordable housing is concentrated, populations with lower incomes, often disproportionately people of color, may become clustered due to limited options.

5. School district boundaries: In many regions, educational opportunities are connected to specific school districts, which may inadvertently result in residential segregation. Higher-income families might move to neighborhoods with better-funded schools, further exacerbating racial and economic disparities in education.

Unintended residential segregation has long-term negative consequences for affected communities. It can lead to unequal access to quality education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and other resources, perpetuating socioeconomic disparities and limiting social mobility. Efforts to address unintended residential segregation typically involve fair housing policies, promoting economic integration, fostering diversity and inclusion, and addressing the root causes of segregation.

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Further reading

Stoica V.I.; Flache A. (2014) "From schelling to schools: A comparison of a model of residential segregation with a model of school segregation", JASSS, 17(1), pp. -. University of Surrey. DOI: 10.18564/jasss.2342