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About
Dr. Michele Parkhill Purdie is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of Integrative Studies at Oakland University. With a Ph.D. in Psychology from Wayne State University and postdoctoral training from the University of Washington, Dr. Parkhill Purdie is a respected interdisciplinary researcher whose work bridges the fields of social psychology, behavioral health, political psychology, and gender-based violence.
Her research focuses on the complex intersections of masculinity and violence, particularly violence against women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and marginalized populations. Utilizing a combination of quantitative methods (including surveys and experimental design) and qualitative approaches (such as focus groups and interviews), she investigates the psychological, social, and historical drivers behind acts of interpersonal and structural violence. Central to her research are themes like emotion regulation, childhood trauma, and substance use, which she explores as contributing factors to violent behavior.
In her work, Dr. Parkhill Purdie places special emphasis on the historical context of violence, drawing on legacies of colonialism, slavery, and institutional oppression to better understand how societal narratives of power and masculinity fuel modern violence. Her commitment to social justice is evident in her research examining police brutality, gun violence, and school shootings, with an aim to inform both policy and prevention.
Beyond her core research, Dr. Parkhill Purdie is an active mentor and collaborator. She guides both Master's and Ph.D. students, fostering new scholars in interdisciplinary and socially conscious research. She also serves as a mentor to Oakland University William Beaumont medical students, supervising EMBARK projects that explore equity in healthcare delivery. These projects have investigated topics such as Native American access to healthcare, LGBTQ+ healthcare preferences, and trauma-informed care for sexual assault survivors—underscoring her holistic approach to research that spans both psychological and healthcare settings.
An accomplished educator, Dr. Parkhill Purdie teaches a wide array of undergraduate and graduate courses including Health Psychology, Research Methods, and specialized seminars in Violence Against Women and Self and Interpersonal Relationships. She is also a frequent invited speaker and has presented her work at numerous institutions and public forums, highlighting the applied relevance of her research in both academic and community settings.
Dr. Parkhill Purdie is deeply engaged in advocacy and education efforts that seek to reduce violence and promote equity. Through her scholarship and mentorship, she continues to influence both the academic field of psychology and the broader societal conversation on violence, health, and justice.
Skills & Expertise
Quantitative research
Qualitative research
Survey methodology
Experimental design
Emotion regulation analysis
Statistical analysis
Mentorship
Public speaking
Program development
Academic writing
Focus groups
Interview techniques
Trauma-informed care
Higher education instruction
Curriculum development
Data analysis
Interpersonal communication
Scientific presentation
Research Interests
Social Psychology
Violence Prevention
Gender Studies
Health Psychology
Gender-based violence
Political psychology
Social psychology
HIV Prevention
sexual violence
LGBTQ+
Interpersonal Relationships
Intimate Partner Violence
Violence
Violence Against Women
Sexual Assault
Violence Against Women
Violence against women
Sexual assault
Behavioral Health
violence against women
Child Abuse
Sexual Abuse
Domestic Violence
Feminist Theory
violence against LGBTQ individuals
gun violence
police violence against minority populations
school shooting violence
threats of rape against women
slavery
violence against LGBTQ+
masculinity
Sexual aggression
emotion regulation
Masculinity and violence
LGBTQ+ violence
Emotion regulation
Childhood trauma
Substance use and aggression
Gun violence
Police brutality
Healthcare equity
Dating violence
Native American health access
Interpersonal violence
Behavioral health
Structural oppression
Trauma and health
Restorative justice approaches
TRAUMA
RAPE
AGGRESSION
Connect With Me
Experience
Associate Professor
Education
University of Washington (UW)
Wayne State University (WSU)
Wayne State University (WSU)
Alma College
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