September Psychology Course Spotlight: Self and Identity

How do we become who we are—and what happens when our identities collide?

This month’s spotlight course is PSYC E-1557: Self and Identity, taught by Dr. Alexandra Sedlovskya. Students explore the psychology of selfhood, from the theories that shaped the field to today’s research on how identity impacts our choices, relationships, and wellbeing.

Course Overview

PSYC E-1557: Self and Identity

Format: On Campus, Online Asynchronous, Online Synchronous

Our sense of who we are permeates every aspect of our life. This course explores how we develop a sense of self; how we navigate multiple identities, some of which may be conflicting or socially devalued; and how these identities affect—both consciously and unconsciously—our thoughts, motives, feelings, and behavior. Students engage with classical theories and contemporary research to gain insight into psychological perspectives on self and identity.

Meet the Instructor

Alexandra Sedlovskaya is Associate Director at the Christensen Center for Teaching and Learning at Harvard Business School, where her work focuses on management education and pedagogies that support participant-centered learning. Research areas include self and identity, case method teaching, curricular innovations, online and hybrid teaching, and teaching effectiveness.

Sedlovskaya has published her research in scholarly journals, including Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Psychological Science, and Journal of Experimental Social Psychology. She teaches a hybrid course and online courses at the Harvard Extension School. Drawing on her research and teaching, Sedlovskaya consults faculty at Harvard Business School and leads workshops for academic institutions and corporations in the United States and abroad.

Sedlovskaya obtained her PhD in psychology from Yale University in 2011 and extended her research training as a postdoctoral associate at the Yale School of Management. As a doctoral student, Sedlovskaya was awarded the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship and the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues Grant to conduct research on diversity and social stigma in organizations. Sedlovskaya earned her BA at Wesleyan University, graduating as valedictorian in 2004.

Why Take This Course?

• Examine the Psychology of Self: Explore how our sense of self develops and evolves over time.

• Navigate Multiple Identities: Understand how cultural, social, and personal identities interact—and sometimes conflict.

• Uncover Hidden Influences: Learn how unconscious identity processes shape thoughts, emotions, and behavior.

• Apply Insights to Real Life: Gain tools to better understand yourself and others in academic, professional, and personal contexts.

Who Should Enroll?

This course is designed for students in psychology, sociology, education, or related fields, as well as anyone curious about the complexities of selfhood and identity. Whether your interests lie in clinical work, research, or personal growth, this class provides valuable insights into how identities shape our lives.

If you’re ready to deepen your understanding of the self and its role in thought, emotion, and behavior, PSYC E-1557 is the perfect course to take.