Critical race theory as a guide for White I-O psychologists' reflection and reflexivity.

Abstract

Following the death of George Floyd, many White people (including me, the author of this commentary) joined book clubs that centered on examining Whiteness in a racialized society. After finishing the final chapter of books such as How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi (2019), The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (2017), and White Fragility by Robyn DiAngelo (2018), my book club, like others, disbanded and further reflection would seemingly dwindle until the next brutal police shooting of an unarmed Black man. Industrial-organizational psychology scientists and practitioners alike formed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) committees with lofty goals to tackle systemic inequities that permeate our institutions and organizations, yet the reticence of addressing Whiteness in our research and practice has persisted. In conjunction with Hyland ’ s (2023) recommendations for engaging in reflective practice, White I-O psychologists across research and practice areas (i.e., not just those in DEI spaces) must consider how White ears and eyes, that is, a White frame of reference, influence our work. Through participation in ongoing reflective and reflexive processes, racial blind spots will unveil themselves, propelling forward a future wherein I-O psychologists are better positioned to meet employees ’ varying needs across a diversity of lived experiences and social identities.