University of Northern Iowa
Dr. Robert T. Hitlan, Ph.D
Professor of Psychology
Advancing research in social psychology, workplace harassment and discrimination, and intergroup relations.
Areas of inquiry
Research Focus
My work examines the social and psychological dynamics of social and workplace ostracism, rejection, and exclusion; harassment and discrimination; and intergroup conflict, with an emphasis on understanding how these processes affect individual psychological well-being, physical health and organizational outcomes, including biological markers associated with such experiences.
Workplace Exclusion & Ostracism
How social and organizationally-based ostracism and rejection affects social and employee well-being, performance, and group dynamics.
Discrimination & Prejudice
Examining the antecedents and consequences of workplace discrimination, with a focus on gender and ethnic minority experiences.
Intergroup Relations
The psychological mechanisms underlying conflict and cooperation between social groups in applied settings.
Scholarship
Recent Publications
Hitlan, R. T.·2026
A Multilevel Appraisal-Response Model of Exclusion (MARME): An Integrative Biopsychosocial Framework
In R. T. Hitlan (Ed.), Ostracism and Social Dynamics: Antecedents, Consequences, and Interventions. Nova Scientific Publishing.
Hitlan, R. T., Dobersek, U., Pettijohn, T. F. III, McCutcheon, L., Locker, L., & Williams, J.·2026
The Dark Triad, Emotional Regulation, and Celebrity Admiration
Current Psychology
Hitlan, R. T.·2026
Sexual and Bystander Harassment Among Part-Time Employees: Effects on Work Attitudes, Stress, and Withdrawal
Behavioral Sciences
Hitlan, R. T., Shabahang, R., McCutcheon, L., Aruguete, M., Wolfe, W., and Rivardo, M.·2023
Negative Judgements about Beautiful Women’s Sex Lives and Self-esteem
North American Journal of Psychology
Teaching
Current Courses
PSYCH 2301
Applied Psychology
Examines the application of psychological principles to real-world settings including the workplace, health contexts, and community environments. Emphasis on evidence-based practice.
PSYCH 2020
Social Science Statistics
Introduction to statistical methods used in social science research, including hypothesis testing, correlation, regression, and analysis of variance.
Reach out
Office Hours & Contact
Bartlett Hall, University of Northern Iowa
[email protected]I'd love to hear from you.
Whether you're a student with questions, a colleague interested in collaboration, or a prospective graduate student — my door is open. Don't hesitate to reach out.
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