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Intersecting and Multiple Identities in Behavioral Health

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Prejudice, Stigma, Privilege, and Oppression

Abstract

This chapter explores the complexities that exist beyond the basic categories of single-identity status (i.e., “race,” “sex,” “religion” independently) and dwells upon the ways in which interconnectedness influences experiences and outcomes of oppression relevant to applied and research-oriented behavioral healthcare settings. Implications of neglecting intersectional theory are discussed with personal, clinical, and empirical consideration. As this chapter explores issues surrounding multiple identities, particularly multiple minority or marginalized identities, an examination of the history of the concept of intersectionality and its eventual application in behavioral healthcare is presented. It also describes prominent theories and research. Because identity-based distinctions are the basis of prejudicial discrimination, this chapter evaluates intersectionality in terms of the cultural, societal, political, and institutional forces that mold our conceptions of difference. Finally, the chapter will conclude with a discussion of intersectionality and multiple minority status within behavioral sciences with a focus on the application of an intersectional framework holistically throughout one’s life rather than as a “technique” or “statistical consideration” solely within one’s work.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychological Science, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, USA

    Kayla Sargent

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  1. Kayla Sargent
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Correspondence to Kayla Sargent .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA

    Lorraine T. Benuto

  2. Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA

    Melanie P. Duckworth

  3. Department of Psychology, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA

    Akihiko Masuda

  4. Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Reno, Reno, NV, USA

    William O'Donohue

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Sargent, K. (2020). Intersecting and Multiple Identities in Behavioral Health. In: Benuto, L., Duckworth, M., Masuda, A., O'Donohue, W. (eds) Prejudice, Stigma, Privilege, and Oppression. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-35517-3_10

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