In spite of progress, inequalities persist worldwide due to factors such as ethnic identity, sexual orientation, and appearance. My research focuses on exploring the impact of these inequalities on individuals’ well-being and health, as well as understanding the conditions under which people actively support social change towards greater equality. To begin, I will examine the health disparities within specific subpopulations of the LGBTIQ+ community using longitudinal data from the Swiss LGBTIQ+ Panel. Additionally, I will present my work investigating the extent to which intergroup contact influences support for social change among both advantaged and disadvantaged groups in the ethnic and LGBTIQ+ contexts. By analysing cross-sectional data from 23 countries and conducting experiments, I will demonstrate that intergroup contact is not always a panacea, challenging the assumptions made in previous studies. In conclusion, I will discuss the potential avenues for future research that can provide a deeper understanding of when and how intergroup contact may effectively drive social change.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Tabea Hässler, Ph.D., is a senior lecturer at the University of Zurich. Tabea’s research focuses on responses to inequalities among members of diverse advantaged and disadvantaged groups in the LGBTIQ+ and ethnic contexts and their support for collective action toward greater social equality. Tabea’s work is influenced by research stays and visits in several countries and collaborations with scholars around the globe. A central aim of Tabea’s work is to promote social justice within and beyond academia. Therefore, Tabea considers it important to disseminate the findings to a broad audience.

TO JOIN THE TALK ON THE DAY

us06web.zoom.us/j/87533878953?pwd=Ukg1RVZEaU1WL1MrTDh5SFlQc3U4QT09
Meeting ID: 875 3387 8953
Passcode: 079261