Social
Identity
Laboratory
Lori Wu Malahy
I am currently a third year doctoral candidate in the Social/Personality area of the UW Department of Psychology. I received my B.A. in psychology from Stanford University in 2004. My research program broadly explores the relations between social identity, prejudice, stigma, and stereotyping. I investigate these constructs from the perspectives of members of devalued groups as well as from the perspectives of those who hold group stereotypes.
Compensating for Stigma
When expecting to be the target of prejudice, members of stigmatized groups sometimes respond by behaviorally disconfirming stereotypes about their group. For example, stigmatized Black participants expressed less liking for rap and basketball—interests traditionally stereotyped as Black—than Black participants not under threat (Steele & Aronson, 1995). In one line of research with Dr. Cheryl Kaiser, I have examined how disconfirming stereotypes can lead to decreased identification with the group. I am also investigating the inter- and intra-group implications for this effect.
Racial Categorization and Stereotyping
In another line of research with Dr. Jason Plaks and Dr. Yuichi Shoda, I explore the nature of racial categorization and associations. Using mixed-race stimuli we hope to better understand what factors influence peoples' perceptions of race. We are also looking at how racial associations generalize to mixed-race individuals.
Other Interests
In rare moments of free time, I love to cook, sew, spin yarn, knit, and blog. Baking is an extra special favorite past time. Here are a few of my favorite sweet recipes.