Close up profile photo of psychology senior lecturer Susan Abel

Dr Susan Abel

Senior Lecturer

Qualifications

Doctor of Philosophy (DPHD) University of Southern Queensland
Bachelor of Science (Honours) University of Southern Queensland
Graduate Diploma of Psychological Studies University of Southern Queensland
Graduate Diploma in Financial Management University of New England
Bachelor of Economics University of Queensland

Biography

Susan's primary research areas encompass the utilisation of digital technology and its effects across different stages of life, as well as research initiatives led by neurodiverse individuals relevant to the autistic and broader neurodiverse communities. Beyond her academic responsibilities Susan serves as a trustee for the Massim Cultural Foundation and oversees the operations of the Massim Museum in Alotau, Papua New Guinea. Currently, she is collaborating with international partners on a project aimed at formulating guidelines for the repatriation of digital proxies of material artifacts, with a focus on how these proxies can support the transmission of cultural knowledge across generations.

Research

  • Abel, S., Machin, T., Brownlow, C. (2021). Social media, rituals, and long-distance family relationship maintenance: A mixed-methods systematic review. New Media & Society, 23(3), 632-654. https://doi.org/10.1177%2F1461444820958717
  • Abel, S., Machin, T., & Brownlow, C. (2019). Support, socialise and advocate: An exploration of the stated purposes of Facebook autism groups. Research in autism spectrum disorders, 61, 10-21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rasd.2019.01.009
  • Thom Jones, S., Brownlow, S., Abel, S. (2024) Experiences of Autistic Parents, From Conception to Raising Adult Children: A Systematic Review of the Literature”. Autism in Adulthood. In Press
  • Vaille, S., Machin, T., Abel, S. (2023). Better than Scrolling: Digital Detox in the Search for the Ideal Self. Media Psychology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/ppm0000496

Teaching and Coordination Responsibilities

  • PSYC3102 Psychology: History, Science & Application 3
  • PSYC4242: Research Project 3
  • PSYC5172 Foundational Psychological Processes Advanced

HDR Research Supervision

Susan is currently supervising three doctoral students

Professional registrations or accreditation

  • Graduate Australian Institute of Company Directors, 2669949
  • Justice of the Peace (Qualified), Queensland Justices Association

Professional Affiliations and Fellowships

  • Associate Member Australian Psychological Society, 208683
  • Fellow (FHEA), Advance HE, PR264762
  • Committee Member Australian Psychological Education Interest Group (AusPLAT)
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