How Does Diversity Affect Public Organizational Performance? A Meta-Analysis

• In Event: Democracy and Administration: Accountability, Representation, Capacity and Power

Abstract

Research in public administration examining the effects of diversity on public organizational performance has produced mixed results. However, the lack of a comprehensive theoretical framework has failed to provide an explanation for the mixed diversity effects. This study introduces a systematic analytical model, Categorization-Elaboration Model (CEM), to help identify the contextual constructs which can promote the positive effects of diversity on public organizational performance. A meta-analysis is conducted on 37 quantitative studies to test the empirical validity of a CEM constructed theoretical model with 252 effect sizes which will promote a better understanding of the circumstances or contexts that lead to the benefits of diversity within public sector organizations. The empirical results of meta-regression point to the appropriate range of contextual factors which can alleviate the potential negative effects of diversity and promote its overall positive effects.

Authors

• Fangda Ding, The University of Hong Kong

• Norma M. Riccucci, Rutgers University, Newark