Heather Ransom

Heather Ransom is a Lecturer in Psychology at the University of Bolton. A chartered psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS), she specializes in Social Psychology, the Psychology of Religion, and Qualitative Research Methods.

• Education: PhD (2022) in Identity Transition out of Conservative Religion, BSc (Hons) in Psychology, Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education.

Research Interests include:

• Conservative religion and the LGBTQ+ community
• Exiting high-control religion
• Identity transition post-religious exit
• Religious ostracism and mental health

Her work is grounded in Social Identity Theory, focusing on how individuals rebuild self-concept after religious shunning. She has published on identity recovery, social death, and peer support systems.

Awards & Affiliations:

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
• Chartered Membership, British Psychological Society (BPS)
• Member, Narrative Research Network, Edge Hill University

Heather supervises PhD, MSc, and BSc projects and welcomes prospective PhD students. She engages with media and public discourse on these topics.