Katherine Kortenkamp

Katherine Kortenkamp is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. She holds a PhD and undergraduate degree in Psychology and Environmental Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her research focuses on environmental psychology, risk perception, ethical decision-making, and outdoor recreation safety. She teaches courses in Research Methods, Advanced Research Methods, and Environmental Psychology.

Her work explores topics such as scientific uncertainty in environmental communication, cooperation in resource management, and prevention strategies for risky outdoor behavior. Notable publications include studies on hiking safety warnings and the psychological underpinnings of pro-environmental behavior. She actively presents at conferences, such as the Midwestern Psychological Association, and has contributed to policy discussions on welfare systems and child welfare.

Kortenkamp’s research integrates quantitative methods with applied environmental and social issues, reflecting her dual expertise in psychological theory and real-world problem-solving. Her recent focus on outdoor recreation risk prevention highlights innovative approaches to public safety messaging and ethical decision frameworks.