Highlighting Commonalities and Distinctiveness Amongst Colleagues to Build Bonds in Visually Diverse Work Environments

Friendships between colleagues with different visual abilities might promote organizational harmony. However, people lacking experience with visually diverse peers may feel apprehensive about forming such bonds. Studies suggest common interests and values facilitate friendship. Thus, emphasizing what colleagues have in common may improve teamwork. But recognizing the unique experiences of those with sight loss is important too. We think balancing commonalities with the unique experiences that make people distinct could strengthen collegial ties and boost productivity. This study will test these ideas by having participants imagine collaborating with a colleague who has different visual ability than they do. Participants will consider a scenario where this person is either similar or different to them in personality and interests and where their experiences as people with different visual abilities are either similar or distinct. Participants will then reflect on their imagined interaction with this colleague and share their feelings and attitudes about the experience. Results will help us to identify the optimal mix of similarity and distinctiveness, at interpersonal and group identity levels, to foster more positive interactions in diverse work environments. CNIB will leverage this research to address stigma, promote inclusion, and create more equitable workplaces for people with sight loss.

Faculty Supervisor:

Chad Danyluck

Student:

Partner:

Canadian National Institute for the Blind

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Accommodation and food services; Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Carleton University

Program: