The Expression of Emotion and Social Status in the Language of Bumper Stickers

Abstract

A content analysis of a Washington, D.C., suburb looked at the emotional tone of bumper stickers in neighborhoods preselected for their racial mix and economic status. Analysis showed bumper-sticker usage was highest in low-income neighborhoods, regardless of race. High-income White neighborhoods had the most positive and intense stickers. Results are discussed in terms of the apparent discrete nature of the four groups studied. High-income African Americans in particular were more subdued in their bumper stickers than either their economic or racial counterparts.