Annika Lutz

I grew up in Germany and received a Master's Degree (M.S.) in Psychology at The University of Hamburg. During my studies, I became involved with the IPU (Initiative Psychologie im Umweltschutz), an Environmental Psychology association in Germany which brings together a large network of students and professionals. Through this work I have developed a passion for Environmental Psychology and using psychological insights to promote sustainable behavior. Furthermore, it is my hope that my experiences with the IPU might translate into actionable psychological research.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

Much research in the field of Environmental Psychology has focused on changing individual consumer behavior. While important work in its own right, I was very excited by Dr. Michael Schmitt’s more critical approach, which focuses on the role of social structures and social relations in preventing or facilitating pro-environmental behavior. Psychological questions that challenge existing power relations and enable transformative social change are fascinating to me and I look forward to conducting some of this research myself.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESEARCH AND/OR PROGRAM.

My research focuses on group processes and collective environmental action. Currently, I am investigating whether the ability to imagine a sustainable future influences pro-environmental activist behavior. More generally, I am passionate about the intersection between political and environmental psychology.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR STUDIES/RESEARCH AT SFU?

I am very enthusiastic about how much the Social Psychology area focuses on and cares about social justice issues. Additionally, I really appreciate the positive and supportive learning environment, as well as the collaborative work climate.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR FUNDED AWARDS?

Special Entrance Graduate Scholarship

DESCRIBE YOUR PROGRAM TO THOSE WHO ARE SEARCHING.

My program offers students the opportunity to do graduate-level research into gender, sexuality, and women's studies from an intersectional perspective. Students are passionate about social justice, and many of our projects are driven by the motivation to make the world a more just place for people who have traditionally been margainlized due to racialization, sexuality, gender, Indigeneity, class, etc.

Contact Annika: annika_lutz@sfu.ca