Navigating the Self in Diverse Work Contexts

Abstract

Navigating the self is critical for working in a diverse world, in which different identities interact in social space. This chapter presents five theoretical perspectives on how individuals navigate the self in diverse organizational contexts-social identity, critical identity, (role) identity, narrative-as-identity, and identity work. We review these five prominent theoretical perspectives on identity processes in diverse contexts to explicate various ways in which individuals actively participate in the co-construction of their identities in diverse contexts. As a next step in research, identity, diversity, and relationship scholars are encouraged to inquire into the generativity of proposed tactics for navigating the self in order to identify pathways for cultivating more positive identities in diverse work settings. The examination of positive relational identities is considered a promising path for further inquiry in this domain. Abstract and KeywordsNavigating the self is critical for working in a diverse world, in which different identities interact in social space. This chapter presents five theoretical perspectives on how individuals navigate the self in diverse organizational contexts-social identity, critical identity, (role) identity, narrative-as-identity, and identity work. We review these five prominent theoretical perspectives on identity processes in diverse contexts to explicate various ways in which individuals actively participate in the co-construction of their identities in diverse contexts. As a next step in research, identity, diversity, and relationship scholars are encouraged to inquire into the generativity of proposed tactics for navigating the self in order to identify pathways for cultivating more positive identities in diverse work settings. The examination of positive relational identities is considered a promising path for further inquiry in this domain.

The Psychological Benefits of Creating an Affirming Climate for Workplace Diversity

“…Finally, we consider Cox’s (1994) IMCD model to identify an additional possible mediator, as well as a recent review highlighting the importance of identity work in navigating the self in diverse work contexts (Roberts & Creary, 2013). Cox argues that identity is central to how diversity impacts behavior in organizations.…”

“…Cox (1991) asserts that “people are at their best when they can be themselves” (p. 59). Roberts and Creary (2013) likewise argue that navigating the self is critical to working in a diverse workplace and involves identity construction and negotiation processes that unfold as people interpret and act on their differences. Roberts and Creary go on to say that as employees act on these differences in constructive ways, they open possibilities for differences to become sources of creativity and resilience (p. 73).…”

A Review of Compensatory Strategies to Mitigate Bias

“…One of the strengths of stigmatized people using an avoidance strategy is that they can facilitate acceptance and relationship building with others, particularly among biased people or those who have stigma-by-association concerns (Creary, Caza, & Roberts, 2015;Swim et al, 1999). Another strength is that inauthentic feelings and cognitive resource depletion is reduced when one uses an avoidance rather than concealment strategy because the former does not require the individual to hide his/her identity (Roberts & Creary, 2013). A final strength of the avoidance strategy is that it can often be used without others' knowledge, thus reducing the chances of backlash from interaction partners (Dailey & Palomares, 2004).…”

Identity (Re)Construction of Female Adolescents with Substance Use Disorders

“…To understand the process of identity construction for an adolescent, the current research examined social identity theory [ 16 , 17 , 18 ], critical identity theory [ 18 , 19 , 20 ], narrative identity [ 21 ], identity work [ 18 , 22 , 23 ], discourse and identity construction [ 18 , 24 , 25 ], possible identities [ 26 ], and intersectionality [ 18 , 20 , 27 ]. Table 1 provides an overview and summary of these identity theories and their relation to adolescents with substance use disorders.…”

“…Intersectionality highlights the ways in which groups experience marginalization [ 42 ]. Intersectionality allows the researcher to unearth the power and status embedded in identities, and show that by having intersecting identities, both opportunity and oppression are created [ 18 ]. Depending on the salience of a particular identity in a specific context, these intersecting identities can signal advantage, disadvantage, or both at the same time [ 43 ].…”