Sophie L. Kuchynka

BA Psychology and Sociology – University of Missouri

MA Psychology – University of South Florida

PhD Psychology – University of South Florida

My research examines the relationships between social group membership, prejudicial beliefs, and inequality. I evaluate how status differences between social groups promote status-legitimizing beliefs and the consequences of those belief systems. I seek to identify people’s motivation behind endorsing status legitimizing beliefs through the use of implicit and explicit measures. One of my research streams examines how gender bias in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) contributes to women’s under-representation. To illustrate, I assess how subtle forms of bias such as protective paternalism undermines women’s competence. Future research will continue to unravel the mechanisms that maintain group-based inequality.

 ResearchGate hyperlink