Michelle Schwier
B.A. Hon., M.Sc.
Research Analyst
Research Interests
Michelle holds a B.A. Hon. in Psychology from Brock University, where her undergraduate thesis explored how the presence of LGBTQIA+ identity safety cues influenced perceptions of inclusivity within the context of a hockey team. After completing her undergraduate studies, Michelle advanced her academic journey with an M.Sc. in Psychology from Western University.
Alongside her academic achievements, Michelle has developed a diverse skill set in media, with expertise in both radio and television production. She also holds a diploma in Music Industry Arts from Fanshawe College. Her passion for the intersection of music and psychology culminated in her master’s thesis, where she used a cross-classified multilevel modeling design to explore perceived misogyny in Billboard’s most popular songs of 2022.
In January 2025, Michelle’s professional path took an exciting new turn when she joined the Waypoint Research Institute team as a Research Analyst. In this role, she contributes to a quality improvement project within the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy program. Michelle’s varied academic background, along with her hands-on experience in both media and research, enables her to bring a unique, interdisciplinary perspective to the intersection of psychology, culture, and mental health.
Publications
Schwier, M., Zidenberg, A. M., & Iqbal, S. (In Press). Exploring correlates of multiple perpetrator rape proclivity in women. Violence and Victims.
Schwier, M. (2024). A cross-classified multilevel study investigating perceptions of misogyny in popular music presented in the format of lyrics. Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10206.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10206