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dbinhamdan@pmu.edu.sa
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Dr. Dalal A. Bin Hamdan is a Saudi sociologist specializing in the sociology of health and childhood adversity. Her research examines the long-term social consequences of childhood bullying and its relationship to the social determinants of adult health across the life course. Her work integrates sociological theory, particularly structural functionalism and life course perspectives, to understand how early-life social stress shapes individual agency and broader social outcomes.
Dr. Dalal Bin Hamdan earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from South Dakota State University in 2019. Her doctoral dissertation, “Childhood Bullying Impact on the Social Determinants of Adults’ Health in Saudi Arabia,” investigates how childhood peer victimization contributes to long-term health inequalities in adulthood.
Prior to joining PMU, she served as Assistant Professor in the College of Education at the American University in the Emirates (2021–2023), where she taught courses including Sociology, Social Sciences, Tolerance and Diversity, and Introduction to Research Methods. She also contributed to several institutional committees, including curriculum development, strategic planning, library development, and institutional effectiveness, and served as chair for student research panels.
Before entering academia, Dr. Bin Hamdan worked as a Child Protection Social Worker at King Abdulaziz Medical City within the Ministry of National Guard – Health Affairs, where she was part of the Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) team addressing cases of child maltreatment and family violence.
Her research interests include:
Dr. Bin Hamdan is a member of Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Honor Society of Sociology.
At PMU, she aims to contribute to the development of an engaged sociological learning environment that encourages critical thinking, research-based inquiry, and the application of sociological knowledge to contemporary social challenges in Saudi Arabia.
Teaching Philosophy
Dr. Bin Hamdan’s teaching philosophy is grounded in the sociological understanding that education is a critical institution for shaping both individual agency and social responsibility. She approaches teaching as an interactive and inquiry-based process that encourages students to critically analyze social structures, cultural diversity, and social inequalities.
Her teaching integrates sociological theory, empirical research, and real-world application. By drawing on case studies from health, education, and social welfare systems, she helps students understand how sociological frameworks can be applied to contemporary societal challenges.
Alignment with PMU Learning Outcomes
Her teaching approach supports the core learning outcomes emphasized at Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University:
1. Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Students learn to analyze social problems using sociological theories such as structural functionalism, conflict theory, and life course theory.
2. Research and Inquiry-Based Learning
Courses incorporate qualitative and quantitative research methods, enabling students to collect, analyze, and interpret social data.
3. Ethical and Social Responsibility
Students explore social justice, diversity, and tolerance while developing awareness of social inequalities and cultural differences.
4. Communication and Collaboration
Through discussions, research projects, and presentations, students develop the ability to communicate complex social issues clearly and collaboratively.
This pedagogical approach encourages students to become informed citizens capable of contributing to social development and innovation.
Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030
Dr. Bin Hamdan’s academic work aligns with the social development priorities outlined in Saudi Vision 2030, particularly in the areas of:
Human Capital Development
Her teaching supports the development of critical thinking, research skills, and social awareness among university students.
Quality of Life and Social Well-being
Her research on childhood bullying and social determinants of health contributes to understanding factors that influence community well-being.
Social Development and Inclusion
Her work on youth adversity, inequality, and public sociology contributes to policy discussions surrounding family safety, education, and health systems in Saudi Arabia.
By integrating sociological research with national development priorities, her work contributes to the broader goal of strengthening social resilience and community well-being in Saudi society.
PhD. in Socilogy, South Dakota State Univedirsty, USA.
MA in Sociology King Saud University, KSA.
BA in Social Sciences King Saud Univeristy, KSA.
Research in Progress
Doctoral Dissertation Research
Childhood Bullying and the Social Determinants of Adult Health in Saudi Arabia.
This study examines the long-term impact of childhood bullying on adult health outcomes using data from the International Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Questionnaire developed by the World Health Organization. The analysis draws on a 2013 national cross-sectional ACE study in Saudi Arabia, conducted by the King Abdullah International Medical Research Center in collaboration with the Ministry of National Guard – Health Affairs, and was completed as part of the Ph.D. in Sociology program at South Dakota State University.
Abstract available on: https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd/3669/
Access to the dissertation (per formal request):
https://kfnl.gov.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
Assissatnt Professor
Childrens Right Adovcate
Courses Taught
At Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Dr. Dalal A. Bin Hamdan teaches interdisciplinary courses within the General Education curriculum that develop students’ critical thinking, global awareness, and analytical skills. Her teaching integrates sociological perspectives with historical, cultural, and future-oriented knowledge to help students understand complex social systems and global transformations.
Introduction to Future Studies (FUTR 1311)
This course introduces students to the study of possible, probable, and preferred futures. Students examine emerging global trends, technological change, and societal transformations using futures thinking tools such as scenario building and foresight analysis. The course encourages students to critically reflect on how societies plan for sustainable and innovative futures.
Introduction to Systems Thinking (SYST 1311)
This course explores systems thinking as a framework for understanding complex social, environmental, and organizational systems. Students learn how interconnected structures and feedback loops shape social outcomes. The course develops analytical skills that enable students to understand social problems from a holistic perspective.
World Civilizations (HIST 1311)
This course examines the development of major world civilizations from historical and cultural perspectives. Students explore the social, political, economic, and cultural forces that shaped global societies and institutions. Special attention is given to the interaction between civilizations and the historical foundations of modern global systems.
Biography of Prophet Muhammad (ALIS 2212)
This course explores the life, teachings, and historical context of Prophet Muhammad. Students examine the social, ethical, and cultural dimensions of the Prophet’s life and leadership and analyze the historical development of Islamic society and its enduring influence on civilization.
Research Agenda at PMU
At Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Dr. Bin Hamdan aims to develop a research program focusing on childhood adversity, social inequalities, and health outcomes across the life course.
Her research agenda includes three main directions:
1. Sociology of Bullying and Childhood Adversity
Investigating how peer victimization during childhood influences long-term health, educational outcomes, and social mobility.
2. Social Determinants of Health in Saudi Society
Examining how socioeconomic status, education, and early-life experiences shape health inequalities across different populations.
3. Education as a Site of Social Innovation
Exploring how universities contribute to social change, innovation, and community development within the Saudi context.
Through interdisciplinary collaboration with scholars in health, education, and social sciences, she aims to contribute to evidence-based policy discussions and community-focused research initiatives.
