Psychological Essentialism: Diversity and the Religious Experience

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Author(s): Sheri Young (John Carroll University, USA)
Copyright: 2016
Pages: 44
Source title: Gender and Diversity Issues in Religious-Based Institutions and Organizations
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Blanche Jackson Glimps (Tennessee State University, USA)and Theron Ford (John Carroll University, USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-8772-1.ch004

Keywords: Gender & Diversity / Gender and Diversity / Information Science Reference / Medicine & Healthcare

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Abstract

This chapter uses a case study, and supporting literature, to explore the function of Psychological Essentialism (the process of giving meaning to perceived “sameness”) in explaining tensions that often arise as we struggle to improve our understanding of diversity and inclusion in higher education, as well as in other social settings. The case study presented throughout the chapter was constructed as an amalgamation of experiences diverse faculty typically report while working on campuses struggling with recruiting and retaining diverse groups. It provides examples of experiences that occur on a range from malicious intent to those that occur, seemingly, without consciousness. The larger question is whether religious and social institutions approach essentialism and stereotyping differently, when it occurs. Seemingly, they do not. The conclusion of this chapter offers solutions for dealing with the barriers faced when attempting to create campus climates that are nurturing and supportive rather than hostile and exclusionary.

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