Maria A. Turkson, assistant teaching professor of psychology at Penn State Harrisburg’s School of Behavioral Sciences and Education, will lead an interactive discussion and presentation to bring awareness to domestic violence from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, in room W338 in the Olmsted Building on campus. She will present a summary of domestic violence research and facilitate discussion through interaction and short videos.
October is domestic violence awareness month, and Turkson’s presentation aims to highlight the need for awareness around this issue. Domestic violence affects one in four women and one in seven men. The topic is especially pertinent to young adults, who are more often targets of domestic violence.
Turkson is a licensed therapist and was the 2018 recipient of the Kathryn Townes Award from the Penn State Harrisburg Commission for Women for her work to raise awareness on campus about issues impacting women. She regularly presents on domestic violence and teaches courses in gender psychology and domestic violence. While in private practice in Washington, D.C., Turkson gained valuable expertise at a women’s center where she assisted women and their families in negotiating the difficulties they face.
The event is open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to wear something purple to symbolize domestic violence awareness and the unity required to make social change. For additional information, contact mat17@psu.edu or call 717-948-6205.