But these are all potential benefits of diversity. The more likely result of introducing diversity into a small group setting, such as a workplace or a classroom, is not so positive. Members of one subgroup tend to be wary, distrustful or suspicious of the members of other subgroups. Communication among the members of the group becomes more difficult and less frequent because of these feelings or because of cultural barriers between subgroups. Efficiency and effectiveness of the group declines.
Open hostility can sometimes result.
This might suggest that diversity within organizations should be discouraged, rather than encouraged. I believe everyone here is familiar with these factors. Many business and educational settings are already highly diverse. For those that are not, notably science, engineering and technology classrooms and workplaces, the only uncertainly about diversity is how quickly it will come. The answer can be found within those organizations where the adverse consequences have been avoided and the potential benefits have been realized.