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Psychology

Lupita Gonzalez

Assistant Professor of Psychology

My research examines how intersectional identities influence our perceptions, thoughts, and actions. In the Social Psychology And Intersectional Society (SPAIS) Lab, we integrate social psychology and cognitive neuroscience methods to examine questions related to inequity, bias, discrimination, and issues that affect people from marginalized communities. We examine questions such as: How does race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and related power structures influence the mental wellbeing and social experiences of people of color? The SPAIS Lab also examines the effects of social contexts on socio-cognitive processes. We examine questions such as, how does the social context influence the perception of racial or ethnic groups? In which contexts are racially biased perceptions associated with biased behavior? Importantly, research in the SPAIS lab is informed by theoretical perspectives from Gender Studies, Black Studies, and Latinx Studies. Our goal is to use our research to contribute to social justice and equity efforts in order to create a more equitable and inclusive society.

Research Interests

  • Intersectionality theory & psychology (e.g., intersection of race, ethnicity, gender, class, immigration status, sexual orientation, disability, & other identities)
  • Effects of intersectional identities on socio-cognitive processes
  • Experiences of BIPOC students in higher education
  • Effects of social contexts on racial and ethnic biases
  • Inclusion of marginalized communities in higher education
  • Health disparities among marginalized communities

Representative Courses

  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Social Issues
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Human Neuropsychology
  • First-Year Learning Community Seminar
  • Senior Seminar

Publications

Hsu, K.J., McNamara, M.E., Shumake, J., Stewart, R.A., Labrada, J., Alario, A., Gonzalez, G.D.S., Schnyer, D.M., & Beevers, C.G. (2020). Neurocognitive predictors of self-reported reward responsivity and approach motivation in depression: A data driven approach. Depression and Anxiety, 37(7), 682-697. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.23042

Gonzalez, G.D.S., & Schnyer, D.M. (2019). Attention and working memory biases to Black and Asian faces during intergroup contexts. Frontiers in Psychology, 9, 2743. http://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02743

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