Current Research Questions

01 — Perceptions of Sexual Harassment

I am currently working on several projects that explore how people perceive sexual harassment claims and the factors that shape these perceptions. My research focuses on identifying potential barriers that individuals with marginalized social identities—such as sexual minorities, racial minorities, and gender minorities—may encounter when reporting sexual harassment. For example, some of my recent research has demonstrated that the prototypicality of women victims impact perceptions, with more masculine women’s experiences being viewed as less legitimate than more feminine women’s experiences.

I am particularly interested in understanding why certain claims are viewed as more or less legitimate than others. My work examines how victim identity, intersectionality, and broader social and cultural norms contribute to these differences in perception. This research aims to shed light on the ways bias and systemic inequities influence judgments about sexual harassment and to inform strategies for creating more supportive and equitable environments for those who experience it.

02 — Understanding Meta-Stereotypes

My research on metaperceptions focuses on how people’s beliefs about others’ attitudes—particularly the stereotypes they think others hold about their own social group (i.e., meta-stereotypes)—influence intergroup dynamics. I am especially interested in how these meta-stereotypes shape individuals’ attitudes, emotions, and behaviors in social interactions.

For example, one line of my work examines how the stereotypes a White American believes Black Americans hold about White Americans affect that White individual’s perceptions, judgments, and behaviors during interracial interactions. These meta-stereotypes can contribute to anxiety, defensiveness, or withdrawal, ultimately making intergroup dialogue and connection more difficult.

A key goal of this research is to better understand how meta-stereotypes may unintentionally interfere with prejudice-reduction strategies, such as perspective-taking or empathy-building interventions. By identifying these barriers, my work aims to inform more effective approaches to improving intergroup relations and promoting meaningful social change.

03 — Addressing Political Discourse

I am working on several projects that examine factors driving political discourse and polarization. For example, my research on perceptions of political “deviants” has found that people believe political extremists are seen more positively by their own party than moderates. I am exploring why these perceptions exist and what downstream consequences they may have for intergroup relations and political behavior. By understanding these mechanisms, I aim to inform interventions that can reduce polarization and promote dialogue across political divides in the U.S.

More broadly, my work investigates how social norms and perceptions of political values shape individuals’ political attitudes, behaviors, and willingness to engage in political discussions. I am especially interested in how political attitudes and moral beliefs can either encourage open dialogue or deepen divisions. While social psychology has long studied perspective-taking, cooperation, and intergroup contact for other social identities, the current political climate highlights the need for more research on affective polarization and strategies to address it.

04 — Increasing Sense of Belonging

I am currently collaborating with faculty and departments across KSU to better understand factors that shape college students’ sense of belonging. Much of this work focuses on students in STEM fields, where I am examining how perceptions of open inquiry, inclusive learning environments, and hands-on experiences contribute to students’ sense of belonging and their career readiness.

In addition, I am working with Dr. Chanler Hilley to study factors that support a smoother transition to college, particularly for first-year students. Together, we are exploring how pre-college experiences, campus climate, and institutional support impact students’ academic adjustment and well-being.

The overarching goal of this research is to identify and address the barriers that marginalized students often face and to inform strategies that help create inclusive, supportive environments where all students can thrive throughout their college experience.