Overview
My research examines the factors that shape two related forms of inequality: stigma, a measure of social exclusion, and status, the extent to which one is perceived as respected and competent. In my research, I target a number of substantive areas in which stigma and status processes are present (e.g., health, race, gender, and sexuality). This approach allows me to increase generalizability of these sociological phenomena, and also to understand what is different regarding content, consequences, management, and foundations of discrimination.
Because stigma and status are enacted and reproduced in social interactions, I focus on both micro-level processes, such as labeling, and macro-level structures, such as social norms. Additionally, I examine both those who enact stigma and those who are stigmatized. My theoretical interests require different methodological approaches including experiments (laboratory and survey-based), in-depth qualitative interviews, and nationally representative survey data.
Because stigma and status are enacted and reproduced in social interactions, I focus on both micro-level processes, such as labeling, and macro-level structures, such as social norms. Additionally, I examine both those who enact stigma and those who are stigmatized. My theoretical interests require different methodological approaches including experiments (laboratory and survey-based), in-depth qualitative interviews, and nationally representative survey data.
