Abstract

Growing research has supported the need to incorporate an intersectional perspective in psychology, both in terms of research and clinical practice. The current investigation aimed to expand on current literature and used an intersectional approach to understanding empathy, specifically focusing on self-identification with stigmatized identities, intersectional awareness, and cognitive flexibility. Although prior research has investigated these variables individually, the current study examined the factors simultaneously and proposed a serial mediation model to explain the relationship between the variables. In particular, the serial mediation model suggested the association between the number of stigmatized identities an individual identifies with and their level of empathy is sequentially mediated by both cognitive flexibility and intersectional awareness. A total of 258 participants (Mage = 34.9; SD = 14.02) completed an online questionnaire that included self-identified demographic information and scales tapping intersectional awareness, cognitive flexibility, and empathy. The number of stigmatized identities was derived from participant’s self-reported demographic responses. The results partially supported the hypotheses proposed. In particular, cognitive flexibility was positively associated with intersectional awareness and empathy. Similarly, intersectional awareness was positively associated with empathy levels. However, the number of stigmatized identities was negatively correlated with cognitive flexibility, intersectional awareness, and empathy. Results supported the hypothesized model, in that there was a significant effect of serial mediation. However, it was not in the expected direction. Additionally, an indirect effect was present for cognitive flexibility, but not for intersectional awareness. The implications of the results on future research and clinical practice are discussed.

First Advisor

Anastasia Yasik

Document Type

ETD

Date of Award

7-24-2024

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