University of Oklahoma Student’s Failing Essay Sparks Controversy; Instructor Placed on Leave
A University of Oklahoma undergraduate’s discrimination complaint has triggered an internal review and placed a psychology instructor on administrative leave, following a dispute over a class essay addressing gender identity.
According to the student, a 20-year-old majoring in the social sciences, she received a failing grade after submitting an assignment that framed the concept of multiple genders as “demonic,” citing passages from the Bible to support her argument.
The essay, part of a psychology course, required students to analyze gender from an academic perspective using peer-reviewed research.
The student argued that she was penalized not for academic shortcomings, but for her religious beliefs. She later filed a formal discrimination complaint with the university, alleging that the instructor treated her unfairly due to her Christian viewpoint.
In a statement released by the university, officials confirmed that the grade would not impact the student’s final course outcome while the incident remains under review. The university noted that it is committed to protecting both academic standards and students’ freedom to express sincerely held beliefs—so long as submissions meet the course’s scholarly requirements.
The instructor, who identifies as transgender, was placed on temporary leave after the situation drew widespread attention, including significant backlash online. University representatives stressed that the action was not disciplinary, but a standard procedure during an investigation.
The incident has since sparked broader debate on campus and beyond, with students, faculty, and advocates weighing in on issues of academic freedom, religious expression, and respect for gender-diverse communities. Some argue that the university has a responsibility to uphold academic standards grounded in research-based psychology, while others contend that students should not be penalized for integrating faith-based perspectives into their work.
As the investigation continues, the university has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a fair process for all parties involved. No final decisions regarding the instructor’s status or the long-term implications of the case have yet been announced.
