“Medice, cura te ipsum!” a (mini) review of how white men are portrayed in diversity management research
Gildenhuys, Kabelo Bosch, Anita
Gildenhuys, Kabelo
Bosch, Anita
Publication Type
Journal article
Editor
Supervisor
Publication Year
2025
Journal
Frontiers in Organizational Psychology
Book
Publication Volume
3
Publication Issue
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Abstract
This mini-review explores the framing and portrayal of dominant group members (DGMs) and highlights a significant gap between the stated goals of inclusion in diversity management and how they are represented in research. Drawing on cooperation and paradox theories, this research analyzes the abstracts of 560 journal articles from the USA and South Africa. Both regions predominantly use a potentially adversarial framing—focusing on group differences with only a small fraction employing reflexive reframing, which is needed to promote intergroup cooperation. The study also identifies the portrayal of DGMs in research, which was analyzed based on an in-depth analysis of 26 articles selected to explore the constructs associated with this group. Based on the classification of constructs devised, both countries mostly follow a dilemma portrayal. This review serves as a call to action, urging scholars to reassess their positioning and avoid exacerbating existing divisions. Exploring alternative solutions and fostering collaboration, ensuring that diversity initiatives are effective and inclusive for all groups requires a shift from adversarial to reflexive reframing and from dilemma to paradox portrayals of dominant group members. This involves acknowledging privilege dynamics while emphasizing the benefits of diversity and the synergies it can create. Embracing a paradoxical view of diversity management can help develop strategies that ensure inclusion and cohesion, recognizing the multifaceted reality of DGMs and avoiding restrictive notions about group identities.
Research Projects
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Keywords
Diversity Management, Dominant Group Members, Intergroup cooperation, Paradox theory, Research discourse