Diversity & Inclusion Frameworks & Theories Flashcards

Which framework uses the metaphor of an 'iceberg' to explain that most cultural values and assumptions are below the surface and not immediately visible?

Answer: Edward Hall's Iceberg Model of Culture

Edward Hall's Iceberg Model illustrates that visible cultural elements (behavior, language) represent only a small portion of culture, while deeper values and beliefs remain hidden below the surface.

In Geert Hofstede's cultural dimensions theory, the 'Uncertainty Avoidance' dimension measures:

Answer: The degree to which people feel threatened by ambiguity and unknown situations

Uncertainty Avoidance reflects a society's tolerance for ambiguity and the extent to which members feel uncomfortable with uncertainty, influencing rules, structure, and risk-taking.

The 'Ally' role in diversity and inclusion work is best described as:

Answer: A person from a dominant group who actively works to dismantle systems of oppression

An ally is typically a person from a dominant or privileged group who uses their position to actively support and advocate for marginalized communities.

Which theory posits that individuals hold multiple intersecting identities that together shape their unique experience of privilege or oppression?

Answer: Intersectionality Theory

Intersectionality, coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, holds that social identities such as race, gender, and class overlap to create compounding and unique experiences of discrimination or advantage.

In the context of D&I training, 'psychological safety' refers to:

Answer: A belief that one will not be punished for speaking up, asking questions, or taking risks

Psychological safety, studied by Amy Edmondson, is the shared belief that the team is safe for interpersonal risk-taking, which is foundational to inclusive learning environments.

The 'contact hypothesis' in diversity work, proposed by Gordon Allport, suggests that prejudice is reduced when:

Answer: Members of different groups interact under conditions of equal status and common goals

Allport's contact hypothesis proposes that intergroup contact reduces prejudice when the interaction occurs under conditions of equal status, cooperative goals, institutional support, and interpersonal acquaintance.

Which model describes a progression from 'Monoculturalism' to 'Multiculturalism' and is used to assess an organization's stage of diversity development?

Answer: The Cultural Competence Continuum

The Cultural Competence Continuum describes a spectrum from cultural destructiveness through monoculturalism to multiculturalism, helping organizations assess and improve their diversity practices.