Ruth Barley

Dr. Ruth Barley is Senior Lecturer in Sociology at Sheffield Hallam University's Social Sciences Institute. Her research examines how children conceptualize identity and the impact on development, spanning education, family structures, and public health contexts.

Methodologically, she develops participatory approaches for research with children and cultural minority groups. Recent publications analyze children's friendship maintenance during the COVID-19 pandemic and associated research ethics.

As UCU Equality Officer, she advocates for inclusive academic practices. Her teaching covers research methodology, identity studies, and cultural diversity frameworks.