Doctoral student recognized for research on Latina psychologists
A College of Education doctoral student was recently recognized for her work examining the experiences of Latina feminist psychologists.
Brooke Rappaport, who is studying for her Ph.D. in counseling psychology, received the Student Scholar Latina Award for Section III, Division 35, of the American Psychological Association. The award reflects her commitment and potential contributions to the field of Latina feminist psychology, according to the awards committee.
"My dissertation is examining the experiences of Latina feminist psychologists and learning what their expectations are of allies, particularly other feminist allies," said Rappaport. "Because feminism is traditionally thought to be a movement that benefits white women and leaves out others, it seems to be quite important to learn more about intersectional feminism."
Her research also aligns with discussions of social justice, equity and human rights that are part of many discussions. No longer, she said, are these topics only found in the world of counseling psychology; today both professionals and non-professionals are concerned about intersectional feminism, or the overlapping of feminist identity and oppression or discrimination.
As part of the award, Rappaport receives a certificate and $250 award, plus $200 toward travel costs to attend this year's American Psychological Association convention in Washington, D.C. Thanks to the financial awards, Rappaport said she will be able to attend the conference. "I also hope to be able to meet some of the women I have interviewed over the phone or Skype in person," she added. "I am excited to network with others who prioritize multicultural and social justice-related research."
The seed was planted for her dissertation last year, when she attended the fall conference for the National Latina/o Psychology Association. She was able to use the conference listserv to interview participants, and plans to present her findings at the same fall conference in 2018.
"I feel very connected to my dissertation and am so happy I have decided to do a qualitative dissertation that allows me to learn in-depth about a group different from my own," she added. "As someone who strives to be an ally, it is becoming important that I learn what those of groups different from my own expect and hope to receive from those with more privileged or dominant identities."