Welcome to the Biopsychosocial Effects of Stigma (BEST) Lab!

In the BEST Lab, our research focuses broadly on identifying the biopsychosocial mechanisms that contribute to adverse mental health outcomes among minority group members, with a particular focus on how structural forms of stigma, prejudice, and discrimination shape population health inequalities. We study the relationship between stigma and mental health across a range of: 1) stigmatized identities/statuses/conditions (e.g., race, immigration, sexual orientation, weight, addiction, and gender); 2) methods (e.g., quasi-experimental, laboratory, experience sampling); and 3) levels (e.g., structural, interpersonal, psychological, and biological). Issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion are core aspects of our mission and are reflected in our research, teaching, mentoring, and service.