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About

Dr. Luciana Ramos Lira is a distinguished researcher in the field of mental health, currently serving as a Senior Researcher (Medical Sciences "F") at the National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz in Mexico. Her career is marked by a strong interdisciplinary approach to the study of violence, gender, trauma, and mental health, particularly in vulnerable populations such as youth and women. Recognized nationally and internationally, she is a Level II Fellow in Mexico's National System of Researchers, a testament to her sustained and impactful scholarly contributions. Dr. Ramos Lira holds a dual academic role as a professor and doctoral advisor at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), participating in both the Public Mental Health and Faculty of Psychology postgraduate programs. She also previously taught in the Master's Program in Victimology at the National Institute of Criminal Sciences and has been a visiting professor in advanced academic programs focusing on domestic violence and health psychology in various Mexican institutions. She is deeply committed to translating scientific research into public knowledge and actionable policy. Dr. Ramos Lira has collaborated extensively with civil society organizations, the World Bank, and human rights institutions, including co-developing a diploma program on violence against children and adolescents with the Human Rights Commission of Mexico City. Her advisory work also includes serving on committees that addressed sexual harassment and workplace violence in research institutions. Throughout her career, she has published prolifically, contributing 78 peer-reviewed articles, 27 public-facing dissemination pieces, and 33 book chapters. Among her most notable co-authored books are "Media and Violence" and "Marijuana and Health", coordinated by former health minister and academic leader Juan Ramón de la Fuente. Her research has been widely cited, further affirming her role as a leading voice in psychosocial and gender-based violence research. Currently, Dr. Ramos Lira coordinates the Interdisciplinary Research Group on Violence, Mental Health, and Gender at the National Institute of Psychiatry. This group fosters collaboration across basic science, clinical science, epidemiology, and psychosocial research, aiming to build a more nuanced understanding of the traumatic consequences of violence, particularly in Latin America. Her recent research explores the mental health implications of induced abortion and unwanted pregnancies, broadening her contribution to sensitive and under-researched topics in reproductive health. Her work continues to shape academic dialogue and public policy in Mexico and across Latin America.

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Skills

Experience

Research Fellow in Medical Sciences "F"

Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, National Institute of Psychiatry

Feb-1984 to Present

Education

National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM)

Ph.D. in Social Psychology

Passout Year: 1984
National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM)

M.SC in Social Psychology

Passout Year: 1980
Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana (AM Xochimilco)

B.Sc. in Psychology

Passout Year: 1978

Publication

  • dott image August, 1999

Mexican American Women’s Definitions of Rape and Sexual Abuse

Focus group approach was used to explore concepts related to rape and sexual abuse among 17 Mexican immigrant women living in rural Arizona. The women discussed definitions of various forms ...