Integrating Multiculturalism and Intersectionality into the Psychology Curriculum ― Strategies for Instructors

Multicultural and intersectional aspects of identity are crucial components of human psychology. Yet, properly teaching and accounting for these factors in psychology courses can be a challenge. This comprehensive book provides instructors with practical guidance for incorporating multicultural perspectives into their courses and creating more welcoming and inclusive classrooms. The contributors are experienced instructors of graduate and undergraduate courses who describe effective teaching strategies, activities, and assignments that encourage students to contribute their viewpoints, learn from each other, challenge their own biases, and expand their worldviews.

Chapters examine specific sociocultural groups based on gender, ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic and ability status. Authors discuss these topics using an intersectional approach, recognizing that individuals are complex beings who are members of multiple groups and whose overlapping identities influence their development, social relationships, and worldviews. Other chapters offer recommendations for integrating multiculturalism into core psychology courses, including introduction to psychology classes, which are most undergraduate students’ only exposure to psychology.

Jasmine A. Mena, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Psychology and Latin American Studies Program affiliate at Bucknell University. She earned her doctorate in clinical psychology at the University of Rhode Island. Her research examines the influence of culture and discrimination on mental and physical health and wellness. She is the recipient of various honors including an Association for Academic and University Women Research Leave Fellowship, Emerging Professional - Contributions to Service Award, (APA Division 45), and Women of Color Psychologies Paper Award (APA Division 35). Jasmine Mena lives in Lewisburg, PA. Visit http://multiculturalpsych.scholar.bucknell.edu/.

Kathryn (“Kat”) Quina, PhD, is Emerita Associate Dean and Professor of Psychology and Gender and Women’s Studies at the University of Rhode Island. She earned her PhD in experimental psychophysics at the University of Georgia. Her research focuses on women and gender, especially the sequelae of sexual abuse. As Psychology Coordinator and Advisor, and subsequently Associate Dean, of the University of Rhode Island's College of Continuing Education, she directed programs that enhanced minority and immigrant success in adult education. She is widely published and has received numerous awards for her work. Kat Quina lives in Hope, RI. Visit https://web.uri.edu/psychology/meet/kathryn-quina/.