Merit, equity, and equality in modern psychiatry
Huang, Allen, and Amos, Andrew James (2025) Merit, equity, and equality in modern psychiatry. Australasian Psychiatry, 33 (5). pp. 783-786.
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Abstract
This article explores how psychiatry can meaningfully advance equity by focussing on equality of opportunity over equality of outcomes. It examines the risks of growing politicisation and inappropriate implementation of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, proposing that merit and fairness are best preserved by addressing systemic barriers without compromising standards. Using examples from Indigenous health leadership and gender equity, it highlights practical strategies such as balancing formal expertise with lived experience and supporting mentoring and flexible work arrangements. It concludes by outlining emerging initiatives that expand access and autonomy, demonstrating how opportunity-based approaches can deliver sustainable and noticeable improvements.
| Item ID: | 88449 |
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| Item Type: | Article (Editorial) |
| ISSN: | 1440-1665 |
| Keywords: | gender equity, indigenous psychiatry, medical ethics, social justice |
| Copyright Information: | © The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists 2025. |
| Date Deposited: | 21 Apr 2026 04:33 |
| FoR Codes: | 32 BIOMEDICAL AND CLINICAL SCIENCES > 3202 Clinical sciences > 320221 Psychiatry (incl. psychotherapy) @ 100% |
| SEO Codes: | 20 HEALTH > 2001 Clinical health > 200105 Treatment of human diseases and conditions @ 100% |
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