Bait and Switch: Representation, Climate, and Tensions of Diversity Work in Graduate Education

Abstract

We present findings from a case study of a psychology department that has graduated a significantly higher share of underrepresented doctoral students than national averages for its discipline. Using the campus racial climate framework, we found that organizational/structural diversity initiatives (recruitment and admissions practices), presented a positive image of the department’s commitment to diversity to prospective students that diverged considerably from the climate and mentoring relationships students experienced once they matriculated. We compared this to a “bait and switch” phenomenon and considered the consequences for students’ success and wellbeing, as well as the ability to sustain diverse student enrollment.