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The Impact of Method, Motivation, and Empathy on Diversity Training Effectiveness

Journal of Business and Psychology volume 30, pages 605–617 (2015)Cite this article

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine method, motivation, and individual difference variables as they impact the effectiveness of a diversity training program in a field setting.

Design

We conducted a longitudinal field experiment in which participants (N = 118) were randomly assigned to participate in one of three diversity training methods (perspective taking vs. goal setting vs. stereotype discrediting). Eight months after training, dependent measures on diversity-related motivations, attitudes and behaviors were collected.

Findings

Results suggest the effectiveness of diversity training can be enhanced by increasing motivation in carefully framed and designed programs. Specifically, self-reported behaviors toward LGB individuals were positively impacted by perspective taking. Training effects were mediated by internal motivation to respond without prejudice, and the model was moderated by trainee empathy.

Implications

These findings serve to demonstrate that diversity training participants react differently to certain training methods. Additionally, this study indicates that taking the perspective of others may have a lasting positive effect on diversity-related outcomes by increasing individuals’ internal motivation to respond without prejudice. These effects may be particularly powerful for training participants who are low in dispositional empathy.

Originality/Value

This study is among the first to examine trainee reactions to diversity training exercises focused on different targets using different training methods. Additionally, we identify an important mediator (internal motivation to respond without prejudice) and boundary condition (trainee empathy) for examining diversity training effectiveness.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. George Mason University, 4400 University Drive, MSN 3F5, Fairfax, VA, 22030, USA

    Alex Lindsey & Eden King

  2. Rice University, Houston, USA

    Michelle Hebl & Noah Levine

Authors
  1. Alex Lindsey
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  2. Eden King
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  3. Michelle Hebl
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  4. Noah Levine
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Correspondence to Alex Lindsey.

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Lindsey, A., King, E., Hebl, M. et al. The Impact of Method, Motivation, and Empathy on Diversity Training Effectiveness. J Bus Psychol 30, 605–617 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10869-014-9384-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10869-014-9384-3

Keywords

  • Diversity training
  • Motivation
  • Empathy
  • Perspective taking
  • Goal setting
  • Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) populations