ABSTRACT
Two theoretical perspectives of diversity effects are discussed. The information elaboration perspective posits that groups can benefit from the variety of knowledge from diversity. The social categorization perspective posits that groups may be prevented from realizing the benefit because intergroup bias can disrupt information processing. Integration of these perspectives is discussed, focused on contingency factors predicting when positive and negative effects of diversity are likely. Recommendations for practice include moving away from fixed category definitions of diversity and an orientation that it is a problem to be managed, and toward an orientation of it being an asset to celebrate.
