Anthony Foster

Building frameworks for better understanding of the psychological dynamics surrounding marginalized social identities, Dr. Anthony Foster serves as an Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Houston-Downtown. With a Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology, focusing on Social Psychology from Texas Tech University, Dr. Foster is deeply invested in exploring the intricate mental, emotional, and behavioral impacts that arise from possessing a marginalized social identity. Dr. Foster's research delves into the nuanced process of disclosing concealable stigmatized identities. He is particularly interested in how individuals navigate the complexities of revealing these identities and the subsequent effects on their well-being. His work seeks to uncover the characteristics of disclosure contexts that can enhance personal and health-related outcomes for those living with traits deemed "discreditable" by societal standards. In his academic role, Dr. Foster is dedicated to fostering an inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to critically engage with issues of identity, stigma, and social perception. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in the study of psychology, aiming to equip students with the skills necessary to address real-world challenges related to social identity and stigma. Beyond his research and teaching, Dr. Foster actively contributes to the academic community through collaborations and publications that advance the field of social psychology. His commitment to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by individuals with marginalized identities underscores his broader mission to promote social justice and equity within and beyond the academic sphere.