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CPA governance restructuring and section autonomy: a case study in organizational resistance to structural diversity
Sonya C Faber1, Amy Bartlett2, Monnica T Williams3
1School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, 136 Jean-Jacques Lussier, Vanier Hall, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada.
International Journal of Mental Health Systems
|August 12, 2026
Summary
Governance reforms in the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) centralized power, reducing member group autonomy. This shift occurred despite calls for diversity, suggesting organizational resistance to structural equity.
Area of Science:
- Organizational Psychology
- Sociology of Organizations
- Public Administration
Background:
- Internal advocacy for structural representation of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) members within the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA).
- Existing organizational structures and power dynamics within professional associations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically examine governance changes within the CPA following advocacy for BIPOC representation.
- To analyze how bylaw amendments impact organizational authority, representation, and accountability.
- To understand governance reforms as potential resistance to structural diversity.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative document analysis of bylaw amendments.
- Application of power hoarding and division of powers frameworks.
- Case study of the Canadian Psychological Association.
Main Results:
- Bylaw amendments centralized authority within the CPA Board and CEO.
- Autonomy of constituent member groups (CPA Sections) was reduced.
- Decision-making power shifted from Sections to central leadership, countering diversity calls.
Conclusions:
- Governance reforms enacted by the CPA can be interpreted as organizational resistance to structural diversity.
- Findings offer insights into how governance influences equity initiatives in professional organizations.
- Implications for organizational governance, diversity consulting, and institutional accountability.
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