Navigating Criticisms of Intersectional Approaches: Reclaiming Intersectionality for Global Social Justice and Well-Being

Abstract

As the use of intersectionality continues to increase in psychology, so do the critiques and extensions of it. Scholars and practitioners who want to integrate intersectionality need to navigate these critiques to maximize its effectiveness and minimize its potential pitfalls. We examine critiques and extensions of intersectionality, particularly as they apply to mental health theory and practice. We focus on two particular cases, namely assemblage theory and decolonial intersectionality, to discuss ways in which extensions of intersectionality can promote a broader, more inclusive model of intersectional social justice and well-being.

Keywords:

• Assemblage theory
• decolonial intersectionality
• global social justice
• intersectionality
• well-being

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful for the feedback from Desdamona Rios, NiCole Buchanan, and Kim A. Case.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.