This interactive digital textbook provides future helping professionals with a comprehensive foundation in understanding and addressing diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging (DEIAB). Beginning with essential concepts such as cognitive processes, power, and privilege, students are guided toward recognizing their role in creating more inclusive environments. The text then examines a wide range of social issues and stereotypes—spanning race, gender, socioeconomic status, religion, age, and health—equipping readers with critical insights for their professional practice. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of ongoing self-reflection and self-care to sustain this work both personally and professionally.
Objectives are clearly stated at the beginning of each chapter. Short answer 'Thought Generators' prompt the student to provide their own thoughts about the concepts presented. Links to external material are peppered throughout the chapters for additional learning beyond the concepts covered. Key terms are reinforced through hover overs and flash cards. Each chapter finishes with a short quiz to test the student's retention of the material covered.
SECTION ONE – Foundational Grounding
Chapter 1: Why study diversity as future helping professionals?
Chapter 2: Cognitive Processes and Their Consequences
Chapter 3: Power and Privilege
SECTION TWO – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility and Belonging
Chapter 4: An Introduction to DEIAB
Chapter 5: The Role of the Helping Professional in DEIAB Work
SECTION THREE - Social Issues and Stereotypes
Chapter 6: Race/Ethnicity/Nation of Origin
Chapter 7: Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
Chapter 8: Socioeconomic Status
Chapter 9: Age
Chapter 10: Religion and Faith Tradition
Chapter 11: Obesity and Health
SECTION FOUR - Sustaining the Work
Chapter 12: I think...Self-Reflection and Self-Care