Shifting mindsets

1 min read · August 16, 2024
New Power Labs

Imagine a friend who insists that you listen to a specific genre of music because they think it's the best. They continuously send you songs, playlists, and recommendations, emphasizing how much you'll enjoy it. You might feel resistant and less inclined to explore the new music despite their enthusiasm. 

Consider another scenario where the same friend casually shares a few songs they enjoy and leaves it up to you whether or not to explore further. In this case, you might be more open to trying because the decision is yours to make.

Behavioral science sheds light on why this happens: when we feel coerced, our natural tendency is to resist. But when we voluntarily opt-in, we’re more likely to open up to new ideas and perspectives.

This reflects the dynamics observed in diversity and inclusion programs. Mandatory programs can inadvertently reinforce biases. When individuals are forced to agree with content critiquing prejudice, it can backfire and strengthen their biases.

However, research shows when people voluntarily attend diversity programs, the results are positive, showing significant increases—9% to 13%—in Black men, Hispanic men, and Asian American men and women in management roles within five years, without adversely affecting the representation of White or Black women. (Kulik et al., 2008)

By creating spaces where engagement is a choice rather than an obligation, we have an opportunity to overcome polarization and make allies in unlikely places.

 Narinder

New Power Labs

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