Melissa Shang, a Harvard student with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, shifted her focus from law to psychology to better support people with disabilities. Her senior thesis, based on original survey data, posits that minority stressors contribute to suicidal ideation among disabled individuals, while positive disability identity can mitigate these effects. Her work has been recognized as essential by her thesis adviser, Mina Cikara, for addressing an important gap in disability research and promoting community engagement. Shang also co-founded the Harvard University Disability Justice Club, enhancing support on campus.
Shang identified a major gap in the field's research and literature, presenting an ambitious survey that links minority stressors to suicidal thoughts in people with disabilities.
Shang realized she could support people with disabilities within psychology, influencing her thesis that examines the connection between stress and suicidal ideation.
The Harvard University Disability Justice Club, co-launched by Shang, now has 140 active members, reflecting her commitment to building a supportive community.
Thesis adviser Mina Cikara praised Shang’s work as incredibly important, highlighting the significance of understanding how community engagement can mitigate stress.
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