A Review of Diversity Conceptualizations

Abstract

In an attempt to develop a means for researchers to reach a common understanding of the substantive meaning of diversity, this article first reviews different approaches to diversity conceptualizations, identifying three common threads that are incorporated in various diversity definitions. Our discussion examines the variety of diversity conceptualizations by addressing the three key aspects that present two general trends that emerge in the literature. We then propose a framework to unify the fragmented definitions and understandings of diversity. The implications for practice and future research are also discussed.