Patricia Friedrich

Patricia Friedrich is a Professor of Sociolinguistics at the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences in the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences at Arizona State University. She also serves as the Vice Provost for Academic Personnel, reflecting her leadership role within the institution. Her academic journey began in Brazil, continued through graduate studies in the United States, and has led to a prolific career in critical sociolinguistics and applied linguistics.

Education:

• Ph.D. in English Linguistics (Sociolinguistics and Historical Linguistics), Purdue University, 2001
• M.A. in English with ESL endorsement, Purdue University, 1997
• B.A. in English and Portuguese (Languages and Literatures), Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil, 1992

Her research interests center on the intersection of language, power, and society. She explores critical applied linguistics, world Englishes, language and peace, anti-racism in linguistics, and the sociolinguistic construction of mental illness. Her work critically examines the spread of English globally, linguistic imperialism, and the ethical dimensions of language use in diplomacy, medicine, and education. She is particularly known for her contributions to peace linguistics and nonkilling linguistics, advocating for linguistic dignity and cross-cultural understanding.

The most recent articles reflect a strong trend toward anti-racism, digital language practices, and the ethical use of English in global contexts. Her scholarship spans digital Englishes, forensic linguistics, gender bias in professional settings, and the role of language in peacebuilding. She frequently publishes in top journals such as World Englishes, International Journal of Applied Linguistics, and English Today.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• Editorial Board Member, International Multilingual Research Journal (2007–Present)
• Reviewer, World Englishes (2007–Present)
• Reviewer, TESOL Quarterly (2006–Present)
• Area Editor, Wiley-Blackwell Encyclopedia of Applied Linguistics (2010–2011)
• Guest Co-Editor, World Englishes Journal (2003)

Dr. Friedrich advises graduate students and leads multiple academic initiatives. She has chaired admissions and search committees and served on university-wide accreditation teams. She is actively involved in service, including leadership in the Peace Studies group, SHArCS (Social and Health Research Center), and the Center for Global Nonkilling. Her future work includes completing a book on anti-racism and linguistics and continuing her research on digital Englishes and linguistic dignity. She also pursues creative writing, being a published novelist.

Labs and Research Teams:

She is closely affiliated with the Center for Global Nonkilling, where she chairs the linguistics research committee, and SHArCS, where she serves as Associate Director. These affiliations underscore her commitment to interdisciplinary research on peace, social justice, and health communication.