Rachel G. Riskind (she/her) joined the Guilford College community in 2013. She is the Christina B. Gidynski '54 Associate Professor of Psychology and Chair of the Department of Psychology.

How do socioecological systems, including systems of oppression, influence family life, sexuality, and gender? Rachel is a feminist social developmental psychologist whose teaching and research address these questions, focusing on parents, children, and adolescents. Her recent research describes family processes in families headed by transgender parents. 

Rachel’s students describe her as a challenging, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic instructor who understands that students’ academic experiences are intimately connected with their lives beyond academics. During class time, Rachel’s students practice applying theories, concepts, and research findings to everyday life. She encourages students to “sing loudly even before they know the notes”: volunteer answers when they don’t feel confident in their understanding. This strategy helps students understand the boundaries of accurate interpretation of the research and helps students benefit from feedback early and often. She often chats with students about their motivations, challenges, and academic progress; this allows her to tailor her teaching to their needs and interests and connect them to relevant resources.