Petra Sandhagen

Dr. rer. nat. Petra Sandhagen is a Researcher at the Institute of Psychology, University of Hildesheim. She serves on the Psychology Examination Board (Bachelor and Master) and acts as Deputy Scientific Staff Group Representative. Additionally, she is the Senate Representative for students with disabilities or chronic illnesses until October 1, 2025. Her office is located at HC.W1.1.03, and appointments can be made via email or phone (+49 5121 883-10968).

• Education: Dr. rer. nat. in Psychology (2002, TU Braunschweig), M.A. in German Studies (1999, TU Braunschweig), Diploma in Psychology (1997, TU Braunschweig)

Petra Sandhagen’s research focuses span Developmental Psychology (perspective taking, theory of mind, twin research, language development) and Media Psychology (media literacy, children’s news comprehension, social relationships in social web, fake news). She also contributes to Differential and Personality Psychology (self-concept research, twin studies).

Her recent publications and presentations emphasize media trust dynamics, fake news recognition, and psychological factors like loneliness and life satisfaction during the coronavirus pandemic. Articles explore pronouns as indicators of cognitive development and media consumption trends across generations.

Scientific Awards:

• Heureka Journalist Prize (2003)
• University of Braunschweig and Braunschweigischer Hochschulbund award for outstanding academic performance (1997)

Petra Sandhagen has presented at conferences such as the DGPs Congress, International Convention of Psychological Science, and KIK Coordination Conference. She is a member of the German Psychological Society (Developmental and Media Psychology divisions), Agora Club Tangent ACT 26 Wolfenbüttel, and Lions Club Media NH.