Dr. Emerson Do Bú
Research lines
My research has revealed the intricate ways healthcare disparities are manifested and perpetuated. Central to this work is the exploration of implicit and explict racial biases related to time investment in healthcare settings. Supported largely by funding from the Portuguese institution Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia, my research has delved into the mechanisms underlying medical decision-making and the consequences of microaggressions on the mental healthcare outcomes for Black individuals and the LGB+ community.
My contributions to the field of psychological assessment have been marked by the development of validated tools designed to assess individual attitudes (eg., prejudice). These innovations enhance our ability to quantitatively explore discrimination and other critical social issues, laying the groundwork for interventions aimed at reducing their impact. These studies have been supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development and the FCT.
My research has also critically examined the intersection between political beliefs and health-related behaviors, with a particular focus during the Covid-19 pandemic. This work underscores how societal and political factors influence individual behaviors, such as adherence to public health measures. Conducted in Brazil and partially supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development as well as FCT, these studies contribute to our understanding of the complex dynamics between socio-political factors and health behaviors.
Early in my research career, I focused on the psychosocial impact of skin conditions, particularly vitiligo, examining both societal perceptions and the experiences of those with the condition through qualitative and quantitative methods. This investigation into societal attitudes toward individuals with such conditions has revealed significant insights into the prejudice, stigma, and discrimination they face. These discoveries are crucial for shaping clinical practices and the societal conversation about skin disorders, establishing a foundation for the connections I have made between health psychology and social psychology. This research was conducted in Brazil and supported by the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development.