Bait and Switch: Representation, Climate, and Tensions of Diversity Work in Graduate Education

Abstract

We present findings from a case study of a psychology department that has graduated a significantly higher share of underrepresented doctoral students than national averages for its discipline. Using the campus racial climate framework, we found that organizational/structural diversity initiatives (recruitment and admissions practices), presented a positive image of the department's commitment to diversity to prospective students that diverged considerably from the climate and mentoring relationships students experienced once they matriculated. We compared this to a "bait and switch" phenomenon and considered the consequences for students' success and wellbeing, as well as the ability to sustain diverse student enrollment.

 

Creator
Kelly E. Slay, Kimberly A. Reyes and Julie R. Posselt
Resource Type
The Review of Higher Education, Special Issue 2019, Vol. 42, Supplement, pp. 255-286
10.1353/rhe.2019.0052
Authorship
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