Publication Date

5-2023

Advisor(s) - Committee Chair

Xiaowen Chen, Reagan Brown, Aaron Wichman

Degree Program

Department of Psychological Sciences

Degree Type

Master of Science

Abstract

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are important to organizations and their employees. However, confusion in conceptualization and operationalization hinders the development of DEI research and application. The purpose of this study was twofold. First, I conceptualized DEI as a composite construct of three interrelated but differentiated components, that is, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Possible relationships among the three constructs were discussed. Second, I developed a three-dimensional scale to measure diversity, equity, and inclusion as separate constructs. The scale showed acceptable reliability, with Cronbach’s alpha levels for the overall scale and subscales range from .81 to .94. Convergent and divergent validity was observed, but the internal structure of the scale was not satisfactory. This study fills the gap in DEI measurement by distinguishing and measuring diversity, equity, and inclusion on the same scale. The scale could be used to develop better DEI initiatives and training programs in organizations. Limitations and future directions are discussed.

Disciplines

Arts and Humanities | Business | Education | Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies | Law | Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Available for download on Saturday, April 18, 2026

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