Lauren O'Rourke

Lauren O’Rourke is a doctoral student in the School of Government and Public Policy, focusing on political psychology. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, she ventured east to Penn State where she gained research experience and graduated with degrees in Psychology, Sociology, and Political Science. Lauren’s research explores the interaction of isolation, polarization, in-group/out-group dynamics, and empathy. Her current work examines how isolation affects each of these factors, given increasing trends of both polarization and isolation in the United States. In addition to her research experience and interests, she has practical experience in politics, having worked on political campaigns for two years. In her free time, she enjoys making fun of bad movies and hanging out with her dog, Mrs. Peaches.