Cultural diversity is a foundational feature of the United States and an increasingly salient feature of many other nations. It can, at times, be understood as a source of strength while, at other times, reveal if not lead to societal injustice, inequality, or, simply, psychological discomfort. The members of the SPCL focus on the social psychology that gives rise to these and other outcomes of cultural diversity. Specifically, we examine processes of mind that influence the ways in which people experience and, thus, respond to diversity. This work can be organized into three broad themes: 1) perceiving and reasoning about intergroup inequality, 2) navigating diverse environments, and 3) experiencing discrimination. A brief summary of the research in each theme is provided below. Ultimately, we aim to unearth psychological barriers to the creation and maintenance of social environments, cultures, and contexts that are diverse, equitable, and just.
Our Work
Topics SPCL Explores
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Perceiving & Reasoning About Intergroup Inequality
Although cultural diversity is typically thought of separately from inequality, it is often the case that diverse societies are fundamentally unequal…
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Navigating Diversity
In light of the proliferation of articles, news reports, and press releases detailing the march towards a “majority-minority” nation, we began an exploration of White…
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Experiencing Discrimination
Discrimination, whether experienced personally or witnessed, is a stressor that can harm mental and physical health. Research on managing stressors finds that reflecting on…