Kathryn Bruchmann

Kathryn Bruchmann is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at Santa Clara University, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. Her research focuses on social cognition, social comparisons, and how individuals form impressions based on political ideology. She holds a Ph.D. in Social Psychology from the University of Iowa.

Her research interests include the psychological mechanisms behind self-evaluation through social comparisons, particularly in contexts like social media and body image disturbances. She also explores how political ideology shapes attitudes and perceptions of others. Her work integrates experimental methods and observational studies to understand these dynamics.

Recent publications highlight her focus on pandemic-related behavior, political polarization, and environmental advocacy through social comparison. Her findings contribute to understanding how information from others influences personal and societal-level decision-making.

Bruchmann leads the Social Cognition and Comparison Lab, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to human behavior. She teaches courses in General Psychology, Social Psychology, and the Psychology of Gender, reflecting her commitment to both research and pedagogy.