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Sarah Elizabeth Gaither

Nicholas J. and Theresa M. Leonardy Associate Professor
Psychology & Neuroscience
417 Chapel Hill Dr, Box 90086, Durham, NC 27708
417 Chapel Drive, 324 Reuben-Cooke Building, Durham, NC 27708

Overview


Humans are fundamentally social beings, and their interactions represent a core aspect of human nature. My research focuses on how individualsā€™ social identities and experiences across the lifespan motivate their social perceptions and behaviors particularly in diverse settings.

More specifically I am interested in three main questions:
1) how intergroup contact shapes interracial interaction outcomes for both racial majority and racial minority individuals
2) how having multiple racial or social identities more broadly affects various types of behavior including complex thinking, social behavior, and identity malleability
3) what contexts in particular may influence how people perceive or socially categorize each other across group boundaries

Therefore, the overall goal of my research program is to investigateĀ the attitudinal and behavioral effects stemming from exposure to racial and gender diversity as a means to pinpoint pathways that one can utilize to foster more positive group relations for both adult and child populations. By exploring the developmental origins of social identity and intergroup perceptions we can pinpoint some of the antecedents that predict adult behavior in diverse settings.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Nicholas J. and Theresa M. Leonardy Associate Professor · 2023 - Present Psychology & Neuroscience, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Associate Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience · 2023 - Present Psychology & Neuroscience, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Affiliate of the Center for Child and Family Policy · 2023 - Present Center for Child and Family Policy, Sanford School of Public Policy

Education, Training & Certifications


Tufts University · 2014 Ph.D.
Tufts University · 2009 M.S.
University of California, Berkeley · 2007 B.A.