Quinetta Roberson - Villanova University
Location:
Gerri C. LeBow Hall722
3220 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Registration Option:
Abstract:
The Evolution and Future of Diversity at Work
Despite the introduction of the term diversity in the early 1990’s, scholarly investigations of the concept first appeared towards the turn of the century and has evolved in a number of ways. Specifically, theory and research on the conceptualization, operationalization, and outcomes of diversity have provided insight into its meaning and import as well as its effects in and on organizations. In addition, more recent work has unearthed moderators and other contextual influences on diversity effects. Yet, even with such developments in this growing body of literature, we still have a relatively limited understanding of diversity as a multilevel and dynamic construct. Put differently, there is still much work to be done in this area. Tracing the evolution of diversity and identifying key contributions to the field, this paper offers a roadmap for future study of diversity. In particular, directions for exploring a broader conceptualization of diversity and its outcomes, examining underlying mechanisms, and adopting a more contingent perspective on its management in organizations are discussed.