Workplace diversity training reduces prejudice and promotes anti-discrimination intentions

Racism remains a harmful societal issue, and organizations must actively address workplace bias and discrimination. However, clear guidelines are often lacking for how to conduct Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training in workplaces. This study aimed to develop and test a tool, the Multi-method Approach to Train Equity (MATE), to reduce prejudice and promote anti-discrimination intentions. Using a robust design with switching replications, MATE’s effectiveness was evaluated with 76 employees across three organizations. Results showed a significant prejudice reduction and strengthened anti-discriminatory behavioral intentions, with lasting effects. However, no changes in compassion or perspective-taking were observed. Defensiveness is discussed as an obstacle that needs to be managed in diversity training, and findings suggest that the multi-method approach is a fruitful model.