Matthew Geraths: Bio

Interests: 1) Theories of identity construction; 2) globalization and educational sojourning, 3) queer theory and identity politics; 4) sociology of the family; 5) sociology of gender and sexuality 6) Masculinities

Projects: 1) The Power of Context: The Process of Identity Change While Studying Abroad (Masters thesis): International exchange programs for American college students are currently enjoying tremendous popularity. As the interest in these programs grows, so does the need to understand how studying abroad affects students. This research addresses the question, “How does studying abroad affect American students’ understanding of themselves as college students?” 2) The PSU Delphi Project: This project is an attempt to test focus group methodology online by creating a forum in which past exchange students are able to share their expert knowledge about living in a foreign country with those thinking about going abroad. The goal is to better prepare students for living overseas and to generate data that can provide stronger exchange programs. 3) Community Queerness: this project is a case study focused on how different LGBTQI organizations on college campuses and in the community organize around queer identities. I am interested in the process by which these organizations choose and define their goals to serve the queer community and what role identity politics play in their development.

Courses Taught:

SOC 200: Introduction to Sociology

SOC 301: Foundations of Sociology I

SOC 302: Foundations of Sociology II

SOC 339U: Marriage & Intimacy

SOC 344U: Gender & Sexualities

Curriculum Vita