Upending Racism in Psychological Science: Strategies to Change How Our Science is Conducted, Reported, Reviewed & Disseminated

As efforts to end systemic racism gain momentum across various contexts, it is critical to consider anti-racist steps needed to improve psychological science. Current scientific practices serve to maintain white supremacy with significant and impactful consequences. Extant research practices reinforce norms of homogeneity within BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color) populations, segregate theories and methods derived from BIPOC groups, apply disparate standards to the evaluation of research on white vs. BIPOC populations, and discourage BIPOC scholars from pursuing research careers. Perhaps consequently, mental and physical health disparities persist. In this article, we present examples of how epistemic oppression exists within psychological science, including in how science is conducted, reported, reviewed, and disseminated. Importantly, this paper offers a needed contribution by offering specific concrete recommendations for different stakeholders, including those involved in the production, reporting, and gatekeeping of science as well as consumers of science. Additionally, this paper critically moves beyond a discussion of problems and potential solutions by offering measurable outcomes that can ensure accountability. This diversity accountability index can be used by journal editors/publishers to measure potential benchmarks of progress, to promote dialogue and action, challenge inequity, and upend the influence of white supremacy in psychological science.