General Concepts About Inclusion in Organizations: A Psychological Approach to Understanding Diversity and Inclusion in Organizations

Abstract

Perceiving others as members of one’s group (the ingroup) or of another group (an outgroup) has a profound impact on how people respond. People react spontaneous more positively toward others viewed as ingroup than outgroup members in their perceptions, thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Thus recognized differences between groups can create unfair barriers for some individuals and advantages for others. In this chapter, we discuss the two most dominant approaches to managing diversity in societies and organizations: colorblindness (an assimilationist strategy) and multiculturalism. We highlight how understanding the psychological challenges and benefits of diversity is critical for managing the landscape in which diversity operates within organizations and for building more inclusive and effective organizations. Consideration of the psychological dynamics of group identity can help leaders respond nimbly and effectively to the social circumstances of their organizations. Encouraging dialogue between members of different groups and instituting policies that acknowledge both difference and interconnections can cultivate the significant benefits of diversity as a valuable resource that can enrich the experiences of both majority- and minority-group members within the organization and thus benefit both the organization and its members.