Interview with Jazmin Brown-Iannuzzi

Dr. Brown-Iannuzzi is currently a professor of psychology at the University of Virginia.

Can you explain your career and what you research at the University of Virginia?

My research investigates how the context of inequality influences individual’s psychological processes, and how these processes may, in turn, perpetuate inequality. In addition to research, I teach both undergraduate and graduate level classes.

What drew you to study social psychology and social group disparities?

I have always been deeply disturbed and intrigued by social group based disparities. As a biracial person who appears White to many people, I’ve always wondered why I received such privileged treatment while my mother, who does not appear White, received relatively worse treatment. My research seeks to understand why people judge others based on superficial characteristics, and how these judgments may perpetuate inequality.

What are some of your most memorable experiences as a social psychologist and/or psychology professor that inspire you to continue your work?

I love learning, so all of my memorable experiences are centered on learning from others. For example, there have been several times when undergraduate students discuss issues they’ve experienced in their life and their first-hand experience leads me to think about a psychological concept in a completely different way. And, I always love working with graduate students - they are so thoughtful and thorough. I feel like through these collaborative experiences, we are able to push each other to do our best research. I am constantly inspired by my colleagues - both faculty and students - and through this wonderful learning environment we are able to generate some interesting research.

This year was especially different due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the various social issues, such as systemic racial inequality, that were brought to light. Because these social issues and social justice movements were brought to light, I believe that there are opportunities for social innovation in our society. Can you explain what innovation is to you, and how do you think we can be innovative in combating these current social issues?

To me, the current moment produces extreme sorrow, rage, but also hope. The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed to many Americans the deep inequalities that have been embedded in our society for a very long time. What I am hopeful about, though, is that now people seem motivated to fix these inequalities. I am hopeful that through both grass-roots movements, policy changes, and structural changes, our society will begin to address these inequalities with an eye towards preventing future inequalities.

I believe many students were inspired to take action or spread awareness about social issues this year, but were not sure how to go about it. Do you have any recommendations for students who want to inform themselves on current events to effectively challenge ignorance or stereotypes related to ethnic diversity?

I think it is really important for students to take a historical perspective when trying to understand current inequalities. These racial inequalities did not appear overnight, but are a result of a long history of racism and racial discrimination in our country. Dr. Ibram X. Kendi provides an anti-racist reading list (https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/list/share/204842963/1357692923) which is a good place to begin.

Do you have any advice for students who are interested in studying social psychology or social relations in the future?

For high school students who are interested in social psychology, I would recommend taking a social psychology course at the local community college, or getting in touch with the professor. In addition, there may be several not-for-profit organizations that utilize social psychological research in your community, so it would be worth meeting with these organization