Diversity

Harken Fleurgin 

Diversity

Diversity: a compilation of different elements, thoughts, and values.

That simple, bare-bones definition does not condone the importance of the word nor its connection or importance to Community Psychology.  Diversity embraces and celebrates the unique qualities and perspectives of each individual and their contribution to the greater whole.   It’s about respecting different races, ethnicities, genders,  sexual orientations, and their ability to participate and compete.

Origin: The word dates to the 14c in mostly a neutral state however older roots have been linked to more negative undertones of “wickedness and perverse” (Harper, unk).  In English, it had a negative and obsolete connotation until the 17c when it began to be seen as a positive and needed thing for societies.  Harper (unk), points out that in 1992 the focus was mainly on the positive side and expanded to include all underserved, minority populations.  The etymology of the word reflects the duality of its very nature.  It, at times, is often loathed by some while fully embraced by others.  Where the flag bearers for homogenous and heterogeneous societies crash. 

Human history is frot with examples of the influence of and need for diversity.  Often due to migration and trade the mingling of different cultures allowed each to display their expertise and share ideas.  War, political marriages, natural disasters, linguistics, and human curiosity further advanced the impact of diversity across cultures.  While not always embraced, even thwarted by many, when it is it often brings positive societal changes, technological advances, intellectual advancement, understanding, and an overall stable community. The sharing of ideas, products, foods, and beliefs advances what is known and helps discover what is not.  Above all, diversity is about truth (Nicholas, 2018).         

Research on diversity and groups has shown that it is an important piece in success.  However, it needs to have a purpose other than, just to be diverse (Kenrick et. al., 2015).  Diversity is task-dependent.  It is great on tasks needing NEW answers, flexibility, and quick adjustments.  Tasks highly dependent on every member often suffer from increased diversity (Kendrick et. al., 2015).  Diverse groups have to deal with prior prejudices and stereotypes where over time differences can be overcome (Gorman, 2022).  That notion is at the heart of those who fight diversity as unwarranted and unnecessary. Diversity has been shown to increase understanding, increase profits and morale, decrease turnover, improve decision-making and more (Urwin, 2024).

Contemporary: While many celebrate diversity, others are working on restricting it.  Contemporary views go beyond nationality and race to include, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, military service, and even education level.  It promotes equal opportunities for all individuals no matter who they are.  Creating a safe environment where everyone can feel seen, valued, and appreciated.

In the words of Martin Luther King 

“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”

Only with diversity and understanding can this wish come true.

References

Forsyth, D. R. (2018). Group Dynamics. Cengage Learning Asia Pte Ltd.

Gorman, D. C. (2023, October). Groups and Social Psychology. University of Massachusetts-Boston. Boston.

Harper, D. (n.d.). Diversity: Search online etymology dictionary. Etymology. https://www.etymonline.com/search?q=diversity