My central research questions relate to understanding mechanisms and trajectories of typical and atypical emotional development. I am primarily interested in the interplay between biology and the environment as they relate to individual differences in emotional development and mental health. Contributing factors to children’s development, along with their interplay, are examined in my laboratory through the use of several complementary methodologies across a variety of studies. These studies emphasize (1) multi-method assessment of affective behavior, (2) childhood temperament, (3) proximal and distal contexts, (4) physiological correlates of affective behaviors, and (5) early risk factors for the development of internalizing and externalizing problems. Although my laboratory focuses on longitudinal studies of young children and families, my students and I embrace opportunities to examine developmental processes relevant to mental health across the lifespan. We welcome new opportunities for collaboration.

Lab Resources

My laboratory comprises a 6-room suite that includes separate spaces for behavioral and psychophysiological testing in the Old HEEP Laboratory Building on the TAMU Campus in College Station. Two behavioral testing rooms are equipped with audio and video recording equipment, controlled from a separate, unobtrusive control room.

Electroencephalogram (EEG) data can be collected in an in-suite room using the ActiChamp system from Brain Products. Two 32-channel systems are available for data collection with children and adults. EEG data can be recorded from inside two sound-proof booths or from a separate, non-enclosed space in the room.

Peripheral psychophysiology (ECG, HR, impedance, and respiration) can be collected simultaneously from up to two individuals using Mindware Technologies’ ambulatory physiology system.

We also have the capacity to collect functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) data using the TechEn CW6.

Biological specimens can be collected and stored in our Fisher Scientific -80 IsoTemp Freezer. Shared wet lab space is available for onsite assay.