Dr Andrea Hollomotz

Lecturer in Social Research Methods

I came to academia from a social work and care background with the aim to analyze how social policy can at times help or hinder positive professional practice, as well as potentially lead to the further marginalization and oppression of disabled people.

After completing my PhD at the University of Leeds I took up a post as lecturer in social policy and research methods at Manchester Metropolitan University between 2009 and 2012, before returning to Leeds in 2012.

I am on the editorial board for Disability & Society and I am regularly engaged in peer reviewing for a range of further academic journals. Since 2011, I am external examiner in Social Policy at London South Bank University.

Research Interests

My research interests evolve broadly around disability studies and social policy. My PhD study focused on learning difficulties, self-advocacy, sex and sexuality and sexual and other forms of ‘vulnerabilities’. I am also interested in criminal justice, probation and forensic practice with people with learning difficulties.

Teaching

My main teaching responsibilities in term 1 are the year 1 and 2 undergraduate methods modules (Co-unit leader with Dr Lisa Buckner):

SLSP1143 Study Skills for Today and Tomorrow – Strand 2: Research Skills
SLSP2010 Sociology and Social Policy Research Methods

I am also convening the following year 1 module in 2012/13:

SLSP1091 Sexuality, Subcultures and Stigma

I am the disability contact for undergraduate students in the department of Sociology and Social Policy.

PhD Supervision

I am interested in supervising students on a broad range of topics. The list below highlights some of my areas of expertise.

Disability studies with a focus on sex, sexuality, ‘vulnerability’ and crime (disabled victims and offenders), in particular sexual violence and hate crime; learning difficulties, self-advocacy and professional practice:
emancipatory, participatory and inclusive research methods, with the aim to enable the participation of less articulate respondents:
child and adult protection policy and practice.