Briefly discuss the underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities among psychologists in the United States and the significance this may have on the field. Provide one possible example that illustrates the effects this may have.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Students' examples may vary.

The answer should include the following information:

The vast majority of psychologists in the United States are white, which indicates the field's lack of diversity. Only around 16 percent of all professionally active psychologists are members of racial minority groups. The underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities among psychologists is troubling for several reasons. First, the field of psychology is diminished by a lack of the diverse perspectives and talents that minority-group members can provide. Furthermore, minority-group psychologists serve as role models for members of minority communities, and their underrepresentation in the profession might deter other minority-group members from entering the field. Finally, because members of minority groups often prefer to receive psychological therapy from treatment providers of their own race or ethnic group, the rarity of minority psychologists can discourage some members of minority groups from seeking treatment.