Rachael Bishop’s research interests lie at the intersection of interpersonal and health communication, with a specific focus on exploring the communicative choices of individuals with stigmatized identities. She is interested in examining how the internalization of stigmatizing messages shapes self-perception and interpersonal communication practices. In studying stigma, she focus on exploring supportive communication practices and support gaps in a variety of interpersonal relationships, as well as the roles of uncertainty, emotion, and empathic communication in deciding when/how/if to disclose and to seek support. She seeks to understand why some individuals are able to resist stigmatization through resilience, and other are vulnerable to stigmatization attempts. Rachael currently teaches Effective Speech (CAS 100A) at the Pennsylvania State University.

Advisor: Dr. Rachel A. Smith