Diversity and Well-being in Software Engineering

The software engineering field is shifting towards a greater emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as the well-being of professionals. Research is highlighting the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment, particularly for underrepresented groups such as LGBTQIA+ individuals. Studies have shown that issues like invisibility, prejudice, and discrimination can negatively impact the experiences of these professionals, while a sense of belonging and tailored support can lead to more positive outcomes. Additionally, there is a growing recognition of the need to address workplace stress and promote well-being through user-centered interventions. While some interventions, such as yoga-based programs, may show promise, their effectiveness can be influenced by various contextual factors. Noteworthy papers in this area include:

  • The Developer Experience of LGBTQIA+ People in Agile Teams, which provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ professionals in software engineering.
  • From Diverse Origins to a DEI Crisis, which explores the backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the software industry and highlights the resilience of DEI values in adapted forms.

Sources

The Developer Experience of LGBTQIA+ People in Agile Teams: a Multivocal Literature Review

Under Pressure: Contextualizing Workplace Stress Towards User-Centered Interventions

Evaluating the Impact of a Yoga-Based Intervention on Software Engineers' Well-Being

From Diverse Origins to a DEI Crisis: The Pushback Against Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Software Engineering

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