The Role of Values in Psychological Science: Examining Identity-based Inclusivity

Should psychology research consider issues of diversity in decisions about research topics, research methods and reporting of results? We suggest that there are three goals or values of psychological research, which may be impacted by diversity: (1) credibility, especially regarding validity and generalizability, (2) understanding, including developing theories and meaning-making, and (3) promoting welfare, including avoiding harm, and promoting human welfare. We examine how diversity, including diversity related to underrepresented groups as well as ideological diversity, impacts these values. We suggest that in most but not all cases, diversity improves research quality but that the three values of psychological research should be considered.