Paula Paajanen

I work as a postdoctoral researcher in the FriendMUM research project, which examines intercultural friendships between immigrant and Finnish-background mothers in a befriending program. I also teach part-time in social psychology.

My previous research has focused on intergroup contact in daily life, particularly on everyday encounters and informal segregation among mothers of young children in multi-ethnic neighborhoods. More broadly, I am interested in how everyday interactions across different contexts shape people’s experiences and intergroup relations in diversifying communities. I have also participated in research projects examining national symbols and local environmental threats. Methodologically, my work draws on a range of qualitative approaches.

In addition to research, I have taught courses in social psychology on intergroup relations, mental health and wellbeing, and environmental social psychology. I am also interested in developing pedagogical practices that foster inquiry-based learning and curiosity.