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Psychology from the Margins

Abstract

Our understanding of the histories of psychology and LGBTQ+ activism have only recently begun to become increasingly intertwined. Psychological science has been used to influence a number of domains including mental health policy, laws and judicial rulings, and attitudes towards social issues. While psychological science has advanced our understanding of these domains, there remains a need for research that examines the experiences of underrepresented groups (e.g., women, racial minorities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, etc.) across distinct aspects of their working lives. Issues of heterosexism, or anti-LGBTQ+ attitudes, prejudice, and discrimination, have received relatively little attention in industrial and organizational psychology. The aim of the present paper is to reflect on how psychology, through both research and policy influence, has shaped our understanding of gender and sexual minority experiences in the modern organization. The history of psychological research, LGBTQ+ activism, and key legal rulings will be reviewed as they relate to the experiences of LTBTQ+ individuals in the workplace. Existing gaps in the literature are identified, with a focus on identifying issues and avenues for future research.

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