Diversifying theory and models for change: Why multiple frameworks better advance equity and belonging in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Introduction: Critical theory as well as formal analytic models and tools across gender, sociological, and intersectional studies provide insight as to why generic culture change initiatives have not led to desired outcomes in the Department of National Defence (DND) and Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Diversifying theories and models for culture change and applying these separately for DND and CAF may better increase cultural changes intended to advance equity and belonging. Methods: A review of critical theory is used to illustrate how social constructions of power relate to inequity across institutions, including the military. Moreover, institutional and social identity theory are presented to identify substantive differences between DND and CAF. An application of Richard Scott's method of institutional analysis highlights distinct organizational functions of DND and CAF, while the use of gender-based analysis plus identifies diversity in treatment and experience related to social hierarchies maintained uniquely within each organization. Finally, an analysis of knowledge transfer, legitimacy, power, and urgency of diverse groups illuminates historic social constructions of power, setting the conditions for contemporary inequities. Results: Findings illustrate that a one-size-fits-all approach to culture change across the wider Defence Team may avoid necessary thinking about institutional distinctions. Discussion: To fully comprehend inequities experienced by DND personnel and CAF members, each institution requires separate but comparative approaches to change. These benefit from applications of critical theory, as well as diversified analysis models and tools to address localized social constructions of power and inequity.