Welcoming Dr. Pamara Chang to the Bearcat Family

Written By Dr. Pamara Chang, a Professor of Communication at the University of Cincinnati

Hi everyone! My name is Pamara Chang and I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication. This is my first year at the University of Cincinnati and I am very excited to join the Bearcat family. I moved from Ithaca, New York, where I completed my Ph.D. at Cornell University. Prior to that I completed my Bachelors degree at the University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign. I was actually born in Athens, Ohio so it’s great to come home. It has been a wonderful transition so far into the Communication department, UC community, and the city of Cincinnati.
My research expertise is in areas of health communication, interpersonal communication, and computer-mediated communication. Specifically, I am interested in how individuals manage stigmatized information and identities through the use of communication and information technologies, in the context of invisible disabilities. My research also explores the effects of mobile and information technology on health attitudes, behaviors, and processes, as well as technological interventions to improve health and quality of life.
To break it down, my research can be placed into three categories:
1) exploring the communication processes of individuals with invisible disabilities managing stigma using technologies
2) examining the features/affordances of these technologies that influence communication and behaviors.
3) developing and evaluating health interventions via information communication technologies to provide better health outcomes, social support, and increased quality of life for individuals with invisible disabilities.
I am currently exploring these research questions in a variety of contexts, including the d/Deaf community and cochlear implants, pro-anorexia, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain of older adults. Given the multi-faceted approach I take to my research, I really appreciate the value that UC places on interdisciplinary research, encouraging collaboration across departments and colleges.
I am really excited to meet with and work with our Masters students and our undergraduates. In addition to my research, I have been enjoying teaching the undergraduate class ‘Internet and Everyday Life,’ and am looking forward to also teaching ‘Theories of Interpersonal Communication’ next semester.
When I am not conducting research, writing, or teaching, I enjoy playing tennis, ice hockey, hiking, and cooking. I have had so much fun exploring Cincinnati and all that it has to offer!

Pamara Chang, Ph.D. (Cornell University), is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Cincinnati. Her research program explores health, interpersonal, and computer-mediated communication. She is interested in how individuals manage stigmatized information and identities through the use of communication and information technologies, specifically in the context of invisible disabilities. She is also interested in the effects of mobile and information technology on health attitudes, behaviors, and processes, as well as technological interventions to improve health and quality of life.
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