Research Interests
My research focuses on understanding interpersonal processes that influence relationships, relationship satisfaction, and subjective well-being (SWB). I have evaluated potential mediators (e.g., relationship authenticity, disclosure) of the association between attachment orientation, relationship satisfaction, and SWB and assessed how mood inductions and survey conditions may impact the structure of SWB. Currently, I am gathering data on induced closeness within classmates to see how the closeness induction may increase student retention and academic performance. Future research may build on the current project and focus on how to help students from underrepresented groups (e.g., Hispanics, women in engineering) integrate into the campus community. Additionally, I anticipate using the dyadic disclosure portions of the current research to inform my research on how partners in romantic relationships interact and how those interactions influence relationship satisfaction and similar outcomes.
These topics provide an opportunity to engage students in the research process as many of them find romantic relationships, college relationships. life satisfaction, and happiness fascinating. Currently, I am working with nine undergraduate research assistants, a graduate thesis student, an Honor's Capstone student, and a McNair Scholar on four research projects. This experience has been rewarding, and I enjoy watching students develop into scholars throughout the research process as they learn experimental methods, create presentations, and write manuscripts to disseminate the findings. I look forward to cultivating these types of interactions further as opportunities present.