Which of the following are Primary Dimensions of diversity?

• A. Military experience, religion, socio-economic status
• B. Age, Gender, Ethnic Heritage, Physical abilities, mental abilities, race & sexual orientation
• C. Language, height, eye color
• D. Hair color, favorite food

Answer: (B)

Primary dimensions of diversity are the fundamental, long-lasting aspects of who a person is that shape identity and how others perceive them. They’re typically stable over a lifetime and not easy to change. The set that includes age, gender, ethnic heritage, physical abilities, mental abilities, race, and sexual orientation fits this idea because these are core, defining parts of a person’s identity that influence experiences and interactions from early on.

In contrast, items like religion and socio-economic status are usually considered secondary dimensions—they can shift with circumstances or life stages. Language, height, eye color, hair color, and even favorite food are either observable traits or personal preferences rather than defining identity in the same enduring way. So the best choice points to those foundational, persistent aspects that truly make up the primary dimensions of diversity.