About Me
Discover Dr. Kendra McLaughlin's work on disability justice, health equity, and psychological research. Learn more about her impactful research and advocacy.
About Me
Hello and welcome, I’m Kendra McLaughlin, I’m a social psychologist deeply committed to disability justice. My work aims at addressing the very real issues of surveillance, punishment, and discrimination that people with disabilities face, based in systems rooted in sanism, ableism, racism, and sexism. I focus my efforts on understanding and dismantling these barriers, particularly for women and gender-diverse people with disabilities who have come into contact with the criminal legal system. I aim to help develop impactful responses to criminalization and incarceration that foster a more inclusive and just world.
Image description: Kendra is a white individual with dark brown hair and round glasses, radiating warmth and professionalism in a black sweater and a gold locket necklace, set against a serene grey backdrop.
Dedicated to dismantling systemic prejudice and enhancing mental health justice, my research ventures into the realms of health equity, analyzing the profound impact of COVID-19 on workplace stress, and educating the public about the intersection of criminalization and state violence against people with disabilities.
My approach is rooted in collaborative research and community engagement, striving to identify and overcome the systemic barriers that restrict access to healthcare for marginalized populations. Together with a network of researchers and community partners, I hope to develop actionable strategies that promote health equity and ensure comprehensive and non-punitive care for every person.
Education
Ph.D. Legal Psychology
Dissertation: Mad and/or Bad? Jurors’ attitudes towards women and men who plead insanity.
Carleton University | 2015-2020
I earned my Ph.D. in Legal Psychology from Carleton University, where I explored the complex dynamics of jurors' perceptions of insanity defenses. This research highlights my commitment to understanding the intersection of sexism, sanism, psychology, and the legal system.
M.A. Social Psychology
Thesis: Being good without God: When moral similarity between theists and atheists is threatening to Christians
Carleton University | 2013-2015
This thesis explores the nuanced dynamics of social identity, religious beliefs and moral judgments, and prejudice, contributing significant insights into interfaith dialogue and tolerance.
B.A. (First-Class Honours) Psychology
Thesis: The effects of exposure to sexism on cognitive performance: The role of shifting in contingencies of self-worth
The University of New Brunswick | 2010-2013
This thesis provides a critical examination of how sexism affects women students’ cognitive abilities, advancing the dialogue on gender discrimination in academia and mental health.
Research Interests
My research interests span a broad spectrum of essential subjects within social and health psychology, focusing on areas such as the criminalization of mental health issues, addressing prejudice and discrimination in the legal and healthcare sectors, navigating anxiety and distress associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, championing disability justice, and enhancing critical public health and social epidemiology for women living with disabilities. The goal of my research is to illuminate systemic challenges and advocate for fair health and justice outcomes.
HOBBIES
Beyond research, I engage in activities like indoor cycling and ballet, which not only enhance my focus but also inspire creativity in my research, advocacy, and writing. These hobbies reflect my belief in the importance of a balanced lifestyle for intellectual and emotional well-being.