A chapter appearing June 10 in the new American Psychological Association Handbook of Pediatric Psychology, Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, and Developmental Science: Volume 1 emphasizes that insufficient attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in research, healthcare practice, and policy can lead to the misinterpretation of data and have serious consequences for the health and well-being of diverse youth and communities.

UC Riverside’s Aerika Brittian Loyd, Diamond Bravo, and David Lo teamed up with Juliet McMullin at UC Irvine to author the chapter titled “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice in Health Research and Professional Practice with Children and Adolescents.”

The chapter is intended for scientists and practitioners — such as developmental scientists, developmental-behavioral pediatricians, and pediatric psychologists — who work with diverse populations and seek to improve their professional practice while promoting social justice and health equity.

The authors organize the chapter into three main sections. The first defines key concepts, including diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice, and explains their relevance to health disparities and public health. The second examines how DEI considerations in scientific research are essential for accurately understanding and improving youth health outcomes. The third section focuses on practical applications, including training recommendations for professionals, strategies for screening, treatment, and prevention in communities disproportionately affected by racism, and the policy implications of these efforts.

“We discuss how racism and race are used to highlight how institutional power and social constructs influence health outcomes,” said Loyd, an associate professor of psychology and the lead author of the chapter. “Our chapter emphasizes the critical role practitioners and researchers play in advancing social justice and achieving health equity through a DEI-focused approach.” 

The chapter also responds to growing interest and ongoing misconceptions about DEI and helps provide clarity and guidance for those committed to improving their work with youth and diverse populations. 

“Without a deliberate focus on DEI, we risk reinforcing the very disparities we aim to eliminate,” said coauthor Lo, a distinguished professor of biomedical sciences. “Health equity isn’t just a goal for the future — it’s a responsibility we carry now, especially for the youth and families we serve.” 

The chapter notes that fields related to child and adolescent health are at a pivotal moment. The authors argue that addressing DEI meaningfully will help reduce disparities and improve well-being, while continued neglect will only perpetuate systemic inequities.

Header image credit: adamkaz/iStock/Getty Images Plus.