Randall C. Young graduated summa cum laude with a B.S. in psychology from Denison University. He earned an M.S. in psychology from the University of Wisconsin at Madison and a Ph.D. in social psychology from the University of California at Berkeley. Young’s research focuses on the intricacies of interaction rituals. He examines such social behaviors as teasing, gossiping and flirtation from a politeness theory perspective. Young joined the Bridgewater College faculty in 2001.
Contact information
- Bowman Hall 220
- 540-828-5438
- rcyoung@bridgewater.edu
Education and certifications
- Education: B.S., Denison University; M.S., University of Wisconsin; Ph.D. University of California
Teaching Fields
Expertise and Topics
Speakers Bureau
- Politeness Theory
A socio-linguistic analysis of “face” and “face-threatening” behaviors. Politeness theory provides insight into status, friendship and the norms of social behavior.
- The Psychology of Gossip
This session looks at how the roles of gossiper, target of gossip and receiver of gossip relate to social status in a group. Is gossip always negative and, if not, what social functions does it serve? How does gossip relate to reputation?
- The Psychology of Teasing
A discussion of using teasing as a social mechanism for analyzing group behavior, especially deviant behavior. This talk also explores how people combine the playful and critical aspects of teasing to shape social networks.
Media Expert
- Psychology of gossip and teasing
Research areas and specializations
- Social Psychology
