Intersectionality in Psychology: Translational Science for Social Justice

Authors

Patrick R. Grzanka, University of Tennessee
Mirella J. Flores, University of Missouri - Kansas City
Rachel A. VanDaalen, Arizona State University
Gabriel Velez, Marquette UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-2020

Publisher

American Psychological Association

Source Publication

Translational Issues in Psychological Science

Source ISSN

2332-2136

Abstract

Intersectionality is an analytic tool for studying and challenging complex social inequalities at the nexus of multiple systems of oppression and privilege, including race, gender, sexuality, social class, nation, age, religion, and ability. Although the term has become widely used in psychology, debates continue and confusion persists about what intersectionality actually is and how best to take an intersectional approach to psychological science. This special issue of Translational Issues in Psychological Science on intersectionality includes a range of methodological tools and theoretical perspectives that advance psychological research on intersectionality. In particular, these projects constitute psychological research that takes intersectionality’s political aspirations seriously and envisions psychology as a tool for social justice. The articles model responsible use of intersectionality through citation practices that reflect intersectionality’s origins in Black feminist thought and women of color scholar-activism, as well as through analyses that reflect intersectionality’s commitment to reflexivity, structural critique, and complexity. In this introduction, the editors reflect on intersectionality’s challenge to psychology and consider the place of translational science amid global crises and what critical psychologist Michelle Fine calls “revolting times.”

Comments

Accepted version. Translational Issues in Psychological Science, Vol. 6, No. 4 (October 2020): 604-313. DOI. © 2020 American Psychological Association. Used with permission.

Recommended Citation

Grzanka, Patrick R.; Flores, Mirella J.; VanDaalen, Rachel A.; and Velez, Gabriel, "Intersectionality in Psychology: Translational Science for Social Justice" (2020). College of Education Faculty Research and Publications. 555.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/edu_fac/555