Dr. Kevin Cokley

Biography

Kevin Cokley is a social psychologist and the University Diversity Social Transformation Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Michigan. His research primarily focuses on African American psychology, particularly racial and ethnic identity development and the academic motivation of African American students. Cokley's work challenges the stereotypes of African American students as anti-intellectual and seeks to advance the understanding of the psychological and environmental factors that enhance or hinder their academic achievements. Recent explorations in his research include the impostor phenomenon and its relationship with mental health outcomes for minoritized students. Furthermore, his scholarship addresses pressing educational issues, particularly the underachievement of African American students, with an emphasis on the cultural and racial factors influencing their experiences. Cokley has published extensively in reputable journals and has authored books that confront anti-Black racism and advocate for social justice in psychology. He teaches courses that examine the psychology of the Black experience and actively participates in initiatives aimed at increasing diversity within the academic landscape of psychology.

Research Interests

Courses