Headshot of Professor Mendoza-Denton

Research Bio

Rodolfo Mendoza-Denton's research encompasses stigma, prejudice, and intergroup relations, with a specific focus on educational outcomes. He is best known for research on how social identities and stereotypes shape belonging and achievement. Drawing on experiments and llongitudinal studies, his work clarifies mechanisms of bias and identifies institutional practices that reduce disparities in education and well-being.

Although trained as a social/personality psychologist, his current work focuses on how organizational norms and practices can foster (or hinder)  the success of individuals within that organization. Specifically, he examines how ambiguity vs. clarity in norms, expectations, and standards within the organization are related to achievement outcomes. 

Research Expertise and Interest

intergroup relations, education, prejudice, stigma

In the News

Teaching

Courses taught during the three most recent terms
2026 Spring
  • Stigma and Prejudice  [PSYCH 167AC]  

  • Field Study in Psychology  [PSYCH 197]  

  • Supervised Independent Study and Research  [PSYCH 199]  

  • Directed Study  [PSYCH 298]  

  • Research  [PSYCH 299]  

  • Supervised Independent Study and Research  [PSYCH 99]  

  • Special Study for Honors Candidates  [PSYCH H195A]  

  • Special Study for Honors Candidates  [PSYCH H195B]  

2025 Fall
  • Field Study in Psychology  [PSYCH 197]  

  • Directed Group Study  [PSYCH 198]  

  • Supervised Independent Study and Research  [PSYCH 199]  

  • Directed Study  [PSYCH 298]  

  • Research  [PSYCH 299]  

  • Supervised Independent Study and Research  [PSYCH 99]  

  • Special Study for Honors Candidates  [PSYCH H195A]  

2025 Summer
  • Research  [PSYCH 299]  

2025 Spring
  • Directed Group Study  [LS 198]  

  • Directed Group Study  [LS 198]  

  • Directed Group Study  [LS 198]  

  • Directed Group Study  [LS 198]  

  • Group Study  [PBHLTH 298]  

  • Field Study in Psychology  [PSYCH 197]  

  • Supervised Independent Study and Research  [PSYCH 199]  

  • Directed Study  [PSYCH 298]  

  • Research  [PSYCH 299]  

  • Supervised Independent Study and Research  [PSYCH 99]  

  • Special Study for Honors Candidates  [PSYCH H195B]