The Distinguished Lecture in Psychology
part of the Social Sciences Forum

Melanie Killen, Ph.D.
Distinguished University Professor, Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology
University of Maryland, College Park

Developmental science perspectives on social exclusion provide a window into determining how to reduce social inequalities and increase positive social relationships. Children begin to understand concepts of fairness and equality early and recognize that social groups often exclude others for unfair reasons. Challenging groups to be more inclusive is costly, however, and may result in exclusion from their group which provides protection, safety, and enjoyment. Facilitating positive cross-group friendships helps reduce "in-group vs. out-group" attitudes which are a salient part of why biases form in the first place. The negative consequences of experiencing social exclusion based on group identity include depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal. This necessitates action to promote healthy child development and a more inclusive society. In this talk, Dr. Killen will discuss her recent research findings on children's viewpoints about fairness and social exclusion. Then she will discuss their school-based program called Developing Inclusive Youth.  Her team is currently creating an AI-powered Teacher App to accompany the program, which she will describe during the talk.

Hosted by the Department of Psychology and co-sponsored by the Center for Social Science Scholarship.

CS3 sponsored events are open for full participation by all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected category under applicable federal law, state law, and the University's nondiscrimination policy.