Ms Michele Parkhill Purdie

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.

• 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
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