What happens in the PAR lab? Mostly research. Occasionally snacks. Sometimes both.
The PAR Lab investigates how individuals develop beliefs about themselves and others, how prejudice and discrimination emerge, and how societies can foster greater understanding, connection, and well-being. Our research spans multiple levels of analysis, from childhood development to social ideologies, media influences, educational interventions, and contemplative practices, with a shared goal of understanding and reducing harm while promoting human flourishing.
Prejudice, Discrimination, and Intergroup Relations
We examine the psychological processes that shape attitudes toward social groups, including the origins and consequences of prejudice, stereotyping, discrimination, and intergroup conflict. Our work seeks to identify pathways toward greater inclusion, empathy, and social cohesion.
Ideology, Power, and Social Beliefs
We investigate how ideological belief systems, including right-wing authoritarianism, social dominance orientation, hostile sexism, and benevolent sexism, influence social perceptions, group dynamics, and attitudes toward inequality. We are particularly interested in how these beliefs develop and operate across the lifespan.
Child Development, Social Learning, and Early Bias
Social attitudes do not emerge in a vacuum. We explore how children develop beliefs about authority, hierarchy, and social groups, with the goal of understanding early foundations of prejudice and identifying opportunities for prevention and intervention.
Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Bystander Action
We study the psychological and social factors that contribute to sexual violence and examine evidence-based strategies for prevention. This work includes research on bystander intervention, social norms, consent education, and factors that promote safer and more supportive communities.
Mindfulness, Flourishing, and Social Change
The PAR Lab is interested in how contemplative practices such as mindfulness can support individual and collective well-being in intergroup contexts. We examine how these approaches might foster empathy, self-awareness, connection, resilience, and reductions in prejudice and intergroup bias.
Media, Technology, and Social Influence
Media environments play an increasingly important role in shaping attitudes, beliefs, and behaviour. Our research explores how digital media, pornography, objectifying content, social media, and immersive technologies interact with individual characteristics and existing beliefs to influence social outcomes.
Interested in More?
Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.p_parlab_stfx/) for updates on research projects, student accomplishments, opportunities, and life in the lab.
You can also connect with Dr. Elvira Prusaczyk on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/elvira-prusaczyk).
For a list of publications and scholarly contributions, visit Dr. Prusaczyk’s Google Scholar profile.
PAR LAB | Dr. Elvira Prusaczyk 