Synthesizers Integrating diverse thoughts and information into a new single inclusive position to achieve one goal. by Ayesha Judy Kanwal & Nelso n

Valuing Diversity

What is Diversity Diversity is a commitment to recognizing and appreciating the variety of characteristics that make individuals unique in an atmosphere that promotes and celebrates individual and collective achievement.

Beneficial or Harmful? Diversity increases or decreases stereotyping and prejudice? Diversity increases or strain relationships? Diversity renews or lowers productivity? Diversity increases creative or complex problem solving? Diversity, commitment or dissonance? Diversity, perspective taking or threatening?

Sources of Diversity Demographic diversity Personal characteristics Abilities and skills

The importance of managing We live in one world Diversity is inevitable Globalization of business

Types of outcome Personal attributes Abilities and skills Production tasks The few studies found mixed Results, so no clear effect of Group composition on performance is proved The few studies found that Heterogeneity of types And levels of ability increases productivity. Intellective tasks Overall, there are not enough Studies to allow a conclusion To be drawn. Mixed-sex groups May outperform same-sex Groups. Almost no directly Relevant research. Decision-making tasksHeterogeneous groups out- Perform homogeneous groups Heterogeneity of ability Level is beneficial Cohesion Heterogeneous groups are Somewhat less cohesive and Have higher turnover rates. Almost no direct research ConflictMore conflicts tend to occur In heterogeneous groups. Almost no direct research Group composition and performance on tasks

Disadvantages of Homogeneity of Membership Lack controversy and clash Avoid taking risks More groupthink Static situation

Disadvantages of a heterogeneity of membership Interaction strain Difficulties in communication and coordination Increased egocentrism Stereotyping & prejudice

Barriers to interacting with Diverse peers Stereotypes  Influence what we perceive and remember actions  Creates oversimplified picture  Tend to overestimate the similarity of behavior  Can lead to scapegoat

Blaming the Victim and Attribution Theory Blaming the victim – occurs as we try to attribute a cause to events Casual attribution - explaining or inferring the causes of events

Prejudice and Discrimination Prejudice – unjustified negative attitude Ethnocentrism – tendency to regard one’s own group is superior Racism – Prejudice against race and ethnic membership Sexism – Prejudice against gender Ageism – Prejudice against elderly Discrimination – Action taken to harm

Culture Clash Conflict over basic value occurs among individuals from different cultures

Making Member Diversity a Strength Diversity among members in any group is a potential source of creativity and productivity Interdependence Creating a Superordinate Group Identity Gaining sophistication Clarifying Miscommunication

Making Member Diversity a Strength Interdependence – Ensure high level of positive interdependence exist among group members Creating a Superordinate Group Identity  Group members must have an appreciation  Group members develop an appreciation  Encourage members to develop a strong superordinate identity  Group members adopt a pluralistic set of values

Making Member Diversity a Strength Gaining Sophistication through Intergroup Relationships  Some people are sophisticated how to act appropriately  Others are Provincial, knowing how to act appropriately

Making Member Diversity a Strength