Lasse Schaefer

PhD Psychology

  • Psychology
  • School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences

Contact details

Undergraduate teaching

Tutor for Critical Analysis and Qualitative Methods in Psychology.  

Research summary

My research delves into the intricate dynamics of polarization, particularly within the context of digital ecosystems. I am fascinated by how the internet acts as a conduit for polarized discourse, enabling accessibility while also examining the underlying mechanisms and motivations that perpetuate this phenomenon. Intersecting with this is my keen interest in the philosophical domains of ontology and epistemology within psychology, probing into the methodologies through which we construct and validate knowledge. I am deeply invested in understanding how individuals interpret and ascribe meaning to their world, an intricate process I view as a function of their unique experiences. My approach considers the individual not in isolation, but as part of a complex web, inherently responsive to their environment and situated experiences

 

Current research interests

My current research project embarks on a comprehensive examination of 'inceldom,' with a particular focus on the construction and validation of 'evidence' within these communities. I investigate how individuals identifying as incels interpret their realities and make sense of the world, often through a lens of exclusion and otherness. Central to this inquiry is an exploration of misogyny as not only a manifestation of prejudice but also a vehicle for expressing a way to deal with deep-seated frustrations and social rejection. This study further delves into the complex relationship between personal grievance and collective identity within incel groups. To capture the nuances of this internet-mediated phenomenon, I employ a multi-modal data collection strategy, integrating qualitative content analysis, discourse analysis, and digital ethnography. These diverse methodologies allow for a robust analysis of the narratives and interactions that occur within inceldom, providing a rich, contextually-informed perspective on how these communities consolidate their beliefs and understanding of the social world.
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