Gizem Arıkan

Gizem Arıkan serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at Ozyegin University, where she has maintained an active faculty position since joining in 2013.

Her academic credentials include:

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Philosophy (Double Major) from Middle East Technical University (2005)
• Master of Science in Clinical Psychology from Middle East Technical University (2007)
• Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology from the University of Southampton (2011)

Dr. Arıkan's research program investigates the intricate connections between psychological processes and physiological mechanisms in trauma response and recovery. Her work centers on attachment theory's role in vulnerability and resilience, neurobiological factors like oxytocin in stress regulation, and the dual pathways of posttraumatic outcomes—examining both debilitating PTSD symptoms and transformative posttraumatic growth. She employs psychophysiological methodologies to explore how emotion regulation strategies and relationship dynamics influence coping mechanisms following traumatic experiences.

Her scholarly contributions have been supported by competitive fellowships:

• Overseas Research Students Award Scheme (ORSAS)
• University of Southampton School of Psychology studentship

Prior to her appointment at Ozyegin University, Dr. Arıkan conducted postdoctoral research at the Centre for Research on Self and Identity, University of Southampton (2011-2013), and held part-time teaching positions at the University of Winchester and Royal South Hants Hospital, demonstrating consistent engagement with both research and clinical education communities.