Research

A BRIEF OVERVIEW

My Research

In collaboration with my students, postdocs, and collaborators, our research shines a light on unspoken assumptions about social groups, often called implicit stereotypes or biases, and the ways in which they impact people’s evaluations of, and actions toward, others. We also examine how implicit biases influence people’s self-perceptions, performance, and academic and career choices.

The research we do is translational—moving back-and-forth between controlled lab experiments and naturalistic field studies.

We are particularly interested in the plasticity of implicit bias—the ways in which changes in social contexts change implicit attitudes, beliefs, and behavior.

Our goal is to translate the lessons from our research to inform social problems such as gaps in student success in education and the underrepresentation of women, working-class students, and racial/ethnic minorities in science, engineering, and technology, and in professional leadership roles.

RESEARCH THEMES
Role Models

Role Models

Role models shape self-evaluations and aspirations. They also shift implicit stereotypes.

Stories & Emotions

Stories & Emotions

Negative emotions increase implicit bias while positive stories decrease implicit bias.

Interventions

Interventions

Prioritizing relationships increases belonging and flourishing for marginalized people.

Social Good

Social Good

Motivation to contribute to social good guides individuals’ choices in school, work, and life.