Toward a socially just diversity science: Using intersectional mixed methods research to center multiply marginalized Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).

Abstract

Objective: Plaut's breakthrough 2010 publication on diversity science-the study of meaningful human differences-set in motion a generative field of theory and research. Yet, to move diversity science forward, innovative methods that explicitly center the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) who encounter multiple forms of marginalization must be adopted. One such approach is intersectional mixed methods research-a methodological approach that uses intersectionality theory to guide the use of both quantitative and qualitative methods within a single study. Conclusions: We argue that intersectional mixed methods research includes four tenets: (1) research questions prioritize multiply marginalized BIPOC individuals, (2) the multiple realities of BIPOC individuals are honored and embraced, (3) identity-related variables (e.g., selfreported discrimination) are studied alongside systems-level variables (e.g., structural racism), and (4) scholars engage in critical reflexivity. We also propose that intersectional mixed methods research can advance scholarship on multiply marginalized BIPOC individuals by fulfilling one of five purposes: Triangulation, complementarity, expansion, development, and initiation. We close with a discussion of tensions and recommendations. Public Significance StatementThe term "diversity" can be used as a catch-all phrase without clear acknowledgment of who is included or excluded. This can lead to a disproportionate focus on the concerns of marginalized individuals with relatively more social privilege. Therefore, we argue that diversity science requires an innovative methodological approach, such as intersectional mixed methods research, that explicitly centers the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) who experience multiple forms of marginalization.

The association between hate crime laws that enumerate sexual orientation and adolescent suicide attempts.

“…Because multiply marginalized sexual minority individuals have been found to experience unique types of stigmatization (e.g., Balsam et al, 2011), future research is necessary to investigate whether youth with multiple minority identities have distinct responses to structural policy interventions. Consistent with recent calls to enhance socially just diversity science, an intersectional mixed methods approach would provide a particularly valuable tool for understanding these multiply marginalized groups (Watson-Singleton et al, 2021).…”

Community-Driven Identification and Adaptation of a Cancer Caregiving Intervention for LGBTQIA Populations

“…A community-academic partnership also relies on input from academic researchers to guide intervention adaptation. From the perspective of KCI and Wilmot researchers, the science of intersectionality emphasizes that interventions for LGBTQIA persons should also consider other identities that have been historically marginalized, such as racial and ethnic minorities, acknowledge the impact of multiple marginalization ( 43 ), and better understand intersectional minority stress experiences ( 44 ). This is especially true for interventions like FOCUS that are designed to address psychological distress, as differences in mental distress have also been documented across racial-ethnic minority groups of SGM individuals ( 45 , 46 ).…”

Seeing Red: A Grounded Theory Study of Women’s Anger after Childbirth

“…The sample was predominantly white, well-educated, and of higher socioeconomic status with limited representation from BIPOC women and no representation from women who were not partnered. Representation of BIPOC voices is critical to promoting inclusion, recognizing that non-perspectives are often marginalized ( Watson-Singleton et al, 2021 ). The findings are not transferable to mothers in general.…”