*Indicates a student co-author.
Cook, Gabriel, Principal Investigator. “Shared Remembering in Romantic Relationships: A Mixed-Methods Diary Study of Intention Communication.” Mental Research Institute, 2025.
Abstract: The vast majority of our understanding of how humans maintain and complete everyday future intentions (e.g., prospective memory) is based on laboratory studies of individuals. These laboratory studies are simple to implement but are often contrived and compromise ecological validity. Individuals, however, comprise partnerships, marriages, and teams and manage both independent and relationship-based intentions. The grant project investigates linguistic features of diary recorded intentions using naturalistic-language processing (e.g., NLP) techniques with a specific application to understand how relationship dynamics (e.g., communication, shared memory, etc.) related to intention establishment, allocation, and fulfillment. A mixed-methods approach to data analysis will be applied to examine both relative and absolute performance of NLP techniques to traditional methods. Hypotheses will be tested related to marital relationship variables (e.g., satisfaction, shared memory systems, etc.) in order to understand how variation in married individuals use of a shared transactional memory system supports efficient every-day prospective memory and helps maintain healthy and positive relationships.
Costanzo, Mark. Dismantling the Death Penalty: Research-Based Answers to the Essential Questions. Oxford University Press, 2025.
Abstract: Dismantling the Death Penalty is an accessible and engaging overview of more than 50 years of multidisciplinary research on the costs and consequences of capital punishment. Professor Costanzo uses diverse sources of information -- closing arguments from capital murder trials; interviews with jurors; statistical analyses of murder rates; experiments; survey data; and quotes from defendants, politicians, and families of victims--to understand the effects and effectiveness of the death penalty. DDP is multidisciplinary in approach, drawing on research from criminal justice, sociology, economics, psychological science, and political science to reach conclusions about the ultimate punishment. Each chapter answers a critical question: How does the legal system decide who is sentenced to death? Do executions deter potential murderers? Are executions “cruel and unusual”? How do race, poverty, and errors influence capital sentencing? Does the public support capital punishment? Is it less expensive than life imprisonment? Is it morally justified? The opening chapter chronicles the history of executions and changes in how, when, and why we kill criminals. The closing chapter evaluates the politics and future of capital punishment.
Dannhäuser, Laura. “Authentic Leadership Theory.” Leadership Theories, Frameworks, and Approaches in Practice, edited by Kathy L. Guthrie and Rich Whitney. Emerald Publishing Limited, 2025, pp. 91-104.
Abstract: Authentic leadership is a compelling subject, particularly given its relevance in the contemporary leadership discourse. Authentic leaders possess a deep understanding of their own values, emotions, strengths, and weaknesses, allowing them to act in alignment with their true self. These leaders promote open communication and honesty in their relationships, sharing their thoughts and feelings appropriately and fostering trust with their followers. Authentic leaders objectively analyze information and consider multiple viewpoints before making decisions, avoiding biases and ensuring fairness in their actions. This chapter explores the history and context around the authentic leadership theory, defines the theory, and concludes with strengths and opportunities of the theory.
Diemer, Matthew A., Maisha T. Winn, Lawrence T. Winn, Wendy de los Reyes, Gabrielle Kubi, and Thomas M. Philip. “Development and Initial Validation of the Transformative Justice Scale: Assessing Teachers’ Capacity for Transformative Practices in Education.” AERA Open, vol. 11, number 1, 2025, pp. 1-14.
Abstract: This paper details the development of a scale assessing teachers’ perceived capacity to enact transformative justice pedagogy, the Transformative Justice Scale (TJS). This measure is grounded in transformative justice (TJ) scholarship and is comprised of two subscales. The TJS factor structure was identified via exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, with distinct samples of racially diverse middle and high school teachers. The TJS is time and resource efficient in that it uses teacher self-reports. The TJS contributes to the literature by providing an assessment of transformative or social justice–oriented pedagogy that is not well covered in existing measures. The TJS also would support teacher professional development and coaching because it could be used as a pre- to post-evaluative tool, to foster continuously reflective practice, or to provide structured feedback. Future work should explore these potential applications as well as further develop teachers’ capacity to enact transformative and equity-oriented approaches to practice.
Medina, Michael A., Channing J. Mathews, Wendy de los Reyes, Anshita Singh, Matthew Diemer, and Tina M. Durand. “Anti-racist methodological approaches to ethnic-racial identity and critical consciousness scholarship.” Journal of School Psychology, vol. 113, December 2025, 101493.
Abstract: Research on ethnic-racial identity (ERI) and critical consciousness (CC) provide relevant and timely insights into youth development, particularly among youth of color. Simultaneously, developmental and educational research are re-examining their methodologies in terms of their use (or lack) of anti-racist practices and policies. In the current examination, we consider past and modern methodologies in ERI and CC work, ways in which they are and may be theoretically founded, and how we may best advance anti-racist research methodology in these areas. To do so, we discuss the processes of ERI and CC development within a developmentally relevant timeframe and context: adolescence and school spaces.
de los Reyes, Wendy, Sarah Farhan, bin Zakaria, Nasir, and Anne Saw. “An exploratory study of resettled Rohingya refugees: Healthcare access and preventive cancer screenings.” Journal of Health Psychology, vol. 30, issue 6, May 2025, pp. 1189–1195.
Abstract: Research suggests that preventive healthcare needs are high among U.S. refugees from Myanmar; yet no studies have examined healthcare patterns among U.S. Rohingya refugees. We examined participation in preventive cancer screening, healthcare access barriers, and facilitators in a community-based sample of 308 Rohingya refugees in Chicago, Illinois. Descriptives were conducted for the participation rates to preventive cancer screenings, indicated by age and gender. Chi-square tests were used to examine gender differences in barriers and facilitators in healthcare. Participants reported low participation in preventive screenings (e.g. 89.2% never received a Papanicolaou (pap) test). Healthcare access barriers were observed: 82.8% uninsured, 81.2% not knowing where to go for healthcare needs, and 55.1% needed interpretation, with men less likely to have had a doctor’s visit in the past year or a regular provider. Findings highlight the urgent need to further develop or tailor interventions to address the healthcare needs for resettled Rohingya refugees.
de los Reyes, Wendy, Afshan Rehman, Shreya Aragula, and Anne Saw. “Building a home in Chicago: Integration and mental health in a newcomer Rohingya refugee community.” Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology, vol. 31, number 2, pp. 199-208.
Abstract:
Objective: Since 2010, approximately 1,000–1,500 Rohingya refugees have resettled in Chicago, Illinois, but there is limited literature on their postresettlement experiences. This study explored the relationship between integration (economic, linguistic, navigational, psychological, and social) and psychological distress among the Rohingya community in Chicago, and how it relates to age and gender. Method: This study was conducted in collaboration with the Rohingya Cultural Center in 2019. The survey was verbally administered to Rohingya community members (N = 308; Mage = 37.03; 52% men). A χ² test of independence was used to assess gender differences in employment status. A Generalized Wilcoxon Test was conducted to compare differences in integration and psychological distress among men and women. Multiple γ generalized regression analysis was used to examine psychological distress as the outcome, predicted by integration, age, and gender.
Results: Findings showed that men had higher levels of involvement in the labor force than women, as well as higher levels of linguistic integration. Analyses also revealed that women and older participants were more likely to experience psychological distress. Additionally, higher psychological and navigational integration were associated with lower psychological distress. In contrast, lower social integration was significantly associated with lower psychological distress.
Conclusion: This study points to the importance of a more nuanced approach to integration, given within-group variability along integration dimensions. Community-level interventions should consider the diverse needs of refugees, particularly those of women and older adults. More research is needed to understand these experiences longitudinally and qualitatively.
Song, Qingfang, Sara S. Whipple, Stacey N. Doan, Rochelle C. Cassells, and Gary W. Evans. “Parent but Not Peer Attachment Mediates the Relations Between Childhood Poverty and Rural Adolescents’ Internalizing Problem Behaviors.” Pediatric Reports, vol. 17, issue 5, September 2025.
Abstract:
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to examine the prospective, longitudinal relations among childhood poverty and rural adolescents’ internalizing and externalizing problem behaviors, and the mediational roles of adolescent attachment to parents and peers. Methods: Participants were from a longitudinal study of rural poverty. Two home visits were conducted, roughly four years apart (Time 1: N = 226; Mage = 13.36, 52.7% male; Time 2: N = 215; Mage = 17.47 years, 51.2% male). Each family’s income-to-needs ratio was assessed at each visit. At Time 2, participants completed questionnaires reporting their attachments to parents and peers, and their externalizing and internalizing symptoms. Results: Parent attachment was found to mediate the relationship between Time 1 family income-to-needs ratio and Time 2 internalizing problems. The mediational effects of peer attachment predicting Time 2 internalizing or externalizing symptoms were not significant.
Conclusions: The long-term impact of childhood poverty on adolescents’ parent attachment and their well-being is discussed.
Taghian, Nadine R., E. Marie Parsons, Hayley E. Fitzgerald, Michael J. Zvolensky, Eugenia I. Gorlin, Stacey Doan, and Michael W. Otto. “Stressful Life Events and Depression in Adolescents from Low-Income Neighborhoods: An Investigation of the Role of Working Memory Capacity and Distress Intolerance.” Cognitive Therapy and Research, vol. 49, issue 1, 2025, pp. 169-176.
Abstract:
Background: Lower socio-economic status (SES) is associated with experiencing a greater number of life stressors and increased risk for depression. This study investigated two factors for adaptive coping—working memory capacity (WMC) and distress intolerance (DI)—as moderators of the association between frequency of stressful life events and depressed mood, controlling for age and gender. We hypothesized that lower WMC and greater DI, alone and in interaction with each other, would moderate the association between the frequency of stressful life events and depression.
Methods: Our sample included 82 adolescents (M = 14 years) recruited from youth mentorship programs, charter schools, and youth community centers. A majority being female (54.9%) and reported their race and/or ethnicity as Other race/Hispanic (43.9%), and Black/non-Hispanic (30.5%). Participants completed self-report measures of stressful life events, depression, DI, and a behavioral measure of WMC.
Results: Results showed a statistically significant main effect of self-reported DI predicting depression (p < .001), such that higher DI scores were associated with higher levels of depression.
Conclusions: Our findings join broader literature indicating that DI is an important regulatory process that may be a useful mechanistic target to enhance emotional functioning, especially among racially/ethnically diverse adolescents from low SES neighborhoods, a relatively understudied population.
Lau, Anna S., Joey J. Fung, Farzana T. Adjah, M. Alejandra Arce, Han Du, and Stacey N. Doan. “Interrupting the “Costs of Competence” Through Mindfulness Intervention for High Achieving Minoritized Students: A Protocol for the Project STRIVE Mechanistic Trial.” Mental Health Science, vol. 3, issue 2, June 2025, e70011.
Abstract: In racially minoritized communities, students who overcome structural challenges to succeed academically are regarded as resilient. However, the same self-regulation skills that help minoritized youth excel despite chronic stress may also lead to physiological dysregulation that can contribute to health disparities. Structural racism and race-related stress may compel motivated youth to adopt a Striving Persistent Behavioral Style (SPBS), a high effort coping strategy that involves emotion suppression, experiential avoidance, and unmodulated perseverance. Mindfulness intervention has the potential to target these aspects of self-regulation while conserving achievement. We will conduct a randomized controlled trial in which 504 high-achieving students of color will be randomly assigned to either a mindfulness intervention or an attention control. Assessments will include self-report and behavioral measures of self-regulation, and self-report and biomarker measures of health outcomes at baseline, post-treatment, and 1-year follow-up. Project STRIVE (STudents RIsing aboVE) will address three aims: (1) Examine the impact of the STRIVE intervention on self-regulation processes associated with SPBS, (2) Assess the effects of the STRIVE intervention on the primary outcomes of allostatic load (a multisystem indicator of chronic physiological stress), health complaints, and internalizing mental health symptoms, and (3) Test the mechanistic pathways linking SPBS to health outcomes. Project STRIVE is a reverse translational study that uses a randomized trial design to provide a causal test of hypothesized mechanisms by which health disparities persist among upwardly mobile racially minoritized individuals. This trial is registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov Protocol and Results Registration System (NCT05846282).
Doan, Stacey N., Alexandra S. Aringer*, Jessica M. Vicman* & Thomas Fuller-Rowell. “Chronic Physiological Dysregulation and Changes in Depressive Symptoms: Testing Sex and Race as Vulnerability Factors.” Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, vol. 12, issue 6, 2025, pp. 3917-3924.
Abstract: Depression is a growing public health concern that affects approximately 5% of adults in their lifetime (WHO in Depression, 2021). Understanding the biological correlates of depression is imperative for advancing treatment. Of particular interest is allostatic load, a multisystem indicator of chronic physiological dysregulation (McEwen and Seeman in, Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1999). The current longitudinal study examined the association between allostatic load, depressive symptoms, and the moderating roles of sex and race. Participants consisted of 150 young adults (Mage = 18.81) who reported their demographics and depressive symptoms at T1 and T2, a year and a half later. Allostatic load was computed using indicators of metabolic, cardiovascular, and neuroendocrine functioning. Allostatic load was found to predict changes in depressive symptoms. Moreover, interaction effects models revealed that the associations between allostatic load and depressive symptoms at follow-up were further influenced by sex, such that the relationship was significant for males, with pronounced effects for Black males in particular. Black males may be particularly vulnerable to the mental health consequences of biological dysregulation.
Hoell, Dylan, Thomas Fuller-Rowell, and Stacey Doan. “Stress-Induced Glucocorticoid Resistance: ACEs Blunt the Relation Between Salivary Cortisol Output and Plasma Glucose Concentration [Conference Abstract].” Biopsychosocial Science and Medicine, vol 87, number 4, May 2025, p. A14).
Abstract: Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is thought to be a key mechanism by which early life stress (ELS) influences later mental and physical health (Dunlavey, 2018). Such dysregulation may occur as glucocorticoid receptor (GR) resistance, where GRs become desensitized or downregulated following overexposure to elevated stress hormones (e.g. cortisol). In theory, GR resistance should diminish the physiological impact of cortisol, which normatively elevates blood glucose as part of the acute stress response. Characterizing stress-induced GR resistance can inform novel strategies to assess HPA dysregulation and offer valuable insight into how ELS shapes health over time. We hypothesized that ELS will diminish the hyperglycemic effect of cortisol via GR resistance. This study analyzed data from 191 college students (Mage= 19.46, SDage= 1.12, 60.5% female) who completed a battery of self-report measures and provided dried blood spot and saliva samples, assayed for glucose and cortisol concentrations, respectively. Salivary cortisol output was calculated as area under the curve with respect to ground from four samples collected before and after the Trier Social Stress Task. Linear regression models were used to assess the effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on the relation between glucose concentration and salivary cortisol output. All models controlled for sex, age, ethnicity, average parent income, BMI, self-reports of dietary fat and sugar, and sampling time. There were no main nor moderating effects of ACEs on the relation between cortisol and glucose. However, exploratory analyses of subtypes of ACEs demonstrated a significant moderating effect of physical (but not psychological) abuse (β = -.174, SE = .239, p=.05). Simple slopes were significant among participants who did not experience childhood physical abuse (B=.247, SE = .087, p = .004), but not among those who did (B = -.182, SE = .168, p = .441). Consistent with our hypothesis, this indicates that participants who experienced physical abuse in early life do not exhibit the normative positive cortisol-glucose relation, suggestive of GR resistance. This illuminates a fuller picture of enduring stress-induced HPA dysregulation beyond what can be shown by cortisol alone, offering novel insight into the mechanisms by which ELS may shape health throughout the lifecourse.
Doan, Stacey, Collaborator. “Project STRIVE (STudents RIsing aboVE): Offsetting the health and mental health costs of resilience.” National Institute of Mental Health, Method to Extend Research in Time (MERIT) Award, R37-MH128729, 2023-2027, $197,242.
Abstract: The Supplement to Project STRIVE will support a longitudinal follow-up of youth to test the long-term effects of the intervention and examine the transition to college.
Handke, Lisa, Patrícia Costa, and Jennifer Feitosa. “How virtual are we? Introducing the team perceived virtuality scale.” Journal of Business and Psychology, vol. 40, number 2, 2025, pp. 455-478.
Abstract: With the strong proliferation of virtual teams across various organizations and contexts, understanding how virtuality affects teamwork has become fundamental to team and organizational effectiveness. However, current conceptualizations of virtuality rely almost exclusively on more or less fixed, structural features, such as the degree of technology reliance. In this paper, we take a socio-constructivist perspective on team virtuality, focusing on individuals’ experience of team virtuality, which may vary across teams and time points with similar structural features. More specifically, we develop and validate a scale that captures the construct of Team Perceived Virtuality (Handke et al., 2021). Following a description of item development and content validity, we present the results of four different studies that demonstrate the construct’s structural, discriminant, and criterion validity with an overall number of 2,294 teams. The final instrument comprises 10 items that measure the two dimensions of Team Perceived Virtuality (collectively-experienced distance and collectively-experienced information deficits) with five items each. This final scale showed a very good fit to a two-dimensional structure both at individual and team levels and adequate psychometric properties including aggregation indices. We further provide evidence for conceptual and empirical distinctiveness of the two TPV dimensions based on related team constructs, and for criterion validity, showing the expected significant relationships with leader-rated interaction quality and team performance. Lastly, we generalize results from student project teams to an organizational team sample. Accordingly, this scale can enhance both research and practice as a validated instrument to address how team virtuality is experienced.
Feitosa, Jennifer, Aaliyah Marie Almeida*, and Teslin Ishee. “Microaggressions in the Workplace: A Guide for Managers.” Merits, vol. 5, number 2, 2025, 10.
Abstract: This paper provides guidance for organizations and individuals to combat the subtle yet impactful discrimination of microaggressions. Drawing from interdisciplinary sources, it integrates insights from organizational science and health psychology, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Through a review of 69 sources, including empirical studies, government reports, and policy analyses, the paper identifies where microaggressions are likely to occur, why they matter to managers, and how they can be addressed in the workplace. Practical, evidence-based strategies are offered to help reshape perceptions, reduce discriminatory behaviors, and create more equitable opportunities, ultimately fostering greater satisfaction and enabling diverse workplaces to reach their full potential. The findings emphasize the importance of mindful management and actionable DEI practices that drive meaningful change in workplace culture. By providing tools to recognize and respond to microaggressions, this paper contributes to broader efforts to reduce inequities and enhance the work environment, ensuring employees can thrive, regardless of their subgroup identities.
Feitosa, Jennifer. “The relevance of glocal support for DEIB: a mixed-method approach.” Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, vol. 44, number 9, 2025, pp. 159-183.
Abstract: Purpose: In today’s globalized landscape, organizations face the challenge of expanding their reach while maintaining their commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). This study employs an exploratory sequential and participative mixed-methods approach to investigate the concept of “glocal” support for DEIB—the evolving interplay of global and local processes, transforming through iterative adaptations, that enhance the DEIB over time—within a global organization operating across eight offices on three continents. Design/methodology/approach: To gain a deeper insight into this emerging concept, I conducted a sequential exploratory with components of participative mixed-method inquiry to understand the interplay between local and global support for DEIB within a non-profit global organization spanning eight countries and three continents. Rather than isolating these two support levels, this study explores their intersection by employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. This approach permits an initial exploration of the nature of glocal support and subsequently facilitates an empirical evaluation of the predictive influence of glocal support beyond other DEIB-related factors. The paper presents the outcomes of two distinct phases: (1) A focus group comprising key employees from eight different offices to elucidate the concept of glocal support and DEIB work. (2) A comprehensive survey probing glocal support in contrast to individual, team, and organizational practices. Findings: Study 1 (N = 62) identifies three key components of glocal DEIB support: fairness in decision-making, leadership modeling of DEIB values, and ongoing DEIB dialogue. Study 2 (N = 264) quantitatively assesses glocal support’s impact on DEIB outcomes, revealing its predictive strength above and beyond individual, team, and organizational factors. Notably, organizational accountability emerges as key to successful DEIB work, while evidence shows glocal support for DEIB shows to be the most significant driver of DEIB initiatives. Originality/value: This paper emphasizes the significance of these characteristics within a DEIB framework and offers a method to assess an organization’s position, aiding targeted DEIB culture enhancement efforts. Despite certain limitations, this research advances the discourse on DEIB within global organizations. It illuminates the intricate relationship between local and global support structures, contributing to developing a glocal DEIB support framework. The implications of this work extend to various industries and offer a foundation for the pursuit of enhanced DEIB initiatives globally.
Murali*, Mrdah, Roystone Varuma, Aaliyah Marie Almeida*, and Jennifer Feitosa. “Beyond Borders: Unpacking the Key Cultural Factors Shaping Adaptation and Belonging Abroad.” Social Sciences, vol. 14, issue 11, 2025, 667.
Abstract: This paper presents a thematic literature review of 35 studies to examine key developmental factors influencing expatriate adaptation, including language, identity integration, cultural intelligence, and spousal/family relations, impacting expatriate adaptation and acclimation to the host country. For the purposes of this review, the term “expatriate” refers to individuals who temporarily relocate abroad for education or professional assignments (self-initiated and assigned), often accompanied by spouses or family members. “Adaptation” is defined as the multidimensional process of adjustment to new academic, workplace, and social environments, encompassing both practical adjustment (e.g., communication, work/study tasks) and psychological well-being. This review uses two bibliometric reviews to set the foundation for exploring the impacts of language, identity integration, cultural intelligence, and family, highlighting that interactions with locals foster language development, identity integration, and cultural intelligence, which collectively enhances expatriates’ perceived sense of comfort and belonging. Spousal and family dynamics appear to be particularly influential, with the potential to either support or hinder successful adaptation. Although prior literature often focuses on these factors in isolation, this paper synthesizes them to provide a more holistic understanding of expatriate acclimation. It emphasizes the need for future research to explore the interrelated nature of these variables and their combined impact on expatriate well-being.
Feitosa, Jennifer, Alicia S. Davis, Gabriela Fernández Castillo, C. Shawn Burke, Alessa N. Natale, and Rebecca Harmata. “Adapt, endure, succeed: profiling extreme teams.” Team Performance Management, vol. 31, issues 7-8, November 2025, pp. 668-699.
Abstract: Purpose: Extreme teams are found in a great variety of contexts, from firefighting to space exploration. The number of extreme teams (alongside research on them) has exponentially increased in the last two decades. Thus, the purpose of this study is to examine the internal team dynamics of extreme teams, identify key team configurations and finally, to explore methodological insights for studying these teams with the use of innovative methods. Design/methodology/approach: Using Hollenbeck et al’s (2012) three-dimensional typology, the authors conducted a systematic review and coded 195 articles according to their skill differentiation, authority differentiation and temporal stability. Findings: Three profiles of extreme teams emerged: (1) agile experts, (2) cohesive mainstays, and (3) structured flex crews. The authors provide specific lessons for each profile as well as methodological guidance to aid researchers and practitioners working with extreme teams. Originality/value: We focus on teams’ dynamics to offer more precision in capturing the relevant sources of stress and uncertainty that shape these teams based on their distinct characteristics, such as leadership structures, skill differentiation and temporal stability, to overcome challenges – regardless of their general extreme context. These new profiles will allow future researchers to understand extreme teams far and wide, from space teams to surgical teams and beyond.
Argote, Nohelia, Jennifer Feitosa, and M. Gloria González-Morales. “The Development of an Integrative Team Belonging Training.” Case Studies in I-O Psychology: Practical Applications of Science, edited by Rick Jacobs and Douglas H. Reynolds. Oxford University Press, 2025, pp. 305-326).
Sim, Jessica J. and Jennifer Feitosa. “Elton Mayo (1880-1949).” Key Thinkers in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, edited by Laura Koppes Bryan and Andrew J. Vinchur. Routledge, 2025.
Abstract: Elton Mayo (1880-1949), originating from Adelaide in Australia, stands as a key thinker in the field of industrial-organizational psychology for his pioneering contributions and work with the Hawthorne studies. More specifically, the studies laid the groundwork for the Human Relations Movement and shifted the field’s focus to social factors and the employee experience. Despite criticisms, the Hawthorne studies set new methodological standards and underscored the profound impact of employees’ emotional states within organizational contexts. Mayo’s legacy continues to shape research and practice in areas such as employee motivation, leadership styles, and organizational culture. Stated simply, Mayo’s enduring contributions influence and enrich our understanding of organizational dynamics.
Benjamin, Laurel R., Cameron Neece, Laura Lee McIntyre, Rachel M. Fenning, Anne Edwards, Angela Gwaltney, and Anne C. Wheeler. “A Transdiagnostic Comparison of Mindfulness and Parenting Stress in Mothers of Children With Autism, Developmental Delay, and Fragile X Syndrome.” American Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, vol. 130, issue 4, July 2025, pp. 249-264.
Abstract: This study compared mindfulness and parenting daily hassles (PDH) among mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delay (DD), and Fragile X syndrome (FXS), and explored diagnostic group as a moderator of the relationship between mindfulness and PDH. Mothers of children with ASD (n = 166), DD (n = 113), and FXS (n = 74) completed measures of PDH, trait mindfulness, and mindful parenting. Mothers reported comparable levels of trait mindfulness and PDH, but the FXS group (versus ASD and DD) reported higher levels of mindful parenting. The mindful parenting/PDH relationship was negative for all groups but weaker for mothers of children with ASD (versus DD and FXS). Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Callaci, Catherine R., Tori R. Van Dyk, Holly E.R. Morrell, Rachel M. Fenning, and Cameron L. Neece. “Parent stress reduction interventions and sleep problems in autistic youth.” Research in Autism, vol. 127, September 2025, 202688.
Abstract:
Background: Sleep problems in autistic children are associated with behavioral difficulties and elevated parenting stress even after accounting for autistic symptoms and demographics. This study evaluated whether two caregiver stress-reduction interventions had collateral benefits in improving parent-reported sleep in autistic children.
Method: Participants included families of autistic children aged 3–5 years (N = 51, 80.39 % child ethnic minority) enrolled in a larger randomized control trial examining the efficacy of two different parent stress reduction interventions: Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Psychoeducation and Support (PE). Parent-reported child sleep problems were measured by the behaviorally-based subscales (bedtime resistance, sleep duration, sleep onset delay) of the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire and parenting stress was measured using the PSI-4 Short Form Parental Distress subscale, both at baseline, post-intervention, and 6- and 12-months post intervention.
Results: Using multilevel modeling, bedtime resistance significantly improved over time, with no significant differences between intervention groups. Sleep duration and sleep onset delay improved over time; however, these outcomes were no longer significant when the effect of the intervention group or its interaction with change over time was added to the model. Less within-individual parenting stress was associated with fewer problems with bedtime resistance and sleep duration, but not with sleep onset delay.
Conclusions: Improvement in parenting stress appears to correspond with improvement in aspects of children’s sleep, particularly bedtime resistance. Clinicians may consider the benefits of addressing parenting stress in the context of behavioral sleep interventions for autistic youth.
Gibbs, Kimberly M. P., Kimberly J. Hammersmith, Kevin G. Stephenson, Jin Peng, Paul S. Casamassimo, Eric M. Butter, Rachel M. Fenning, and Robin B. Steinberg-Epstein. “Oral Health Fatalism and Oral Health Self-Efficacy in Caregivers of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Using Data From a Longitudinal Interventional Study.” Pediatric Dentistry, vol. 47, number 3, May 2025, pp. 151-156.
Abstract: Purpose: To evaluate changes over time in oral health fatalism (OHF) and oral health self-efficacy (OHSE) in the context of an intervention, in caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Methods: This secondary analysis used questionnaire data from a parent study of 118 Medicaid-eligible families of children with ASD enrolled in a longitudinal, multi-site randomized clinical trial testing the efficacy of a novel parent training (PT) intervention relative to psychoeducational toolkit for improving home oral hygiene and dental health. OHF and OHSE belief endorsements were evaluated at baseline, three months, and six months.
Results: At baseline, 25 percent of caregivers disagreed with the OHF-endorsing statement 'Most children eventually develop dental cavities,' and 11 percent did not report confidence with OHSE statements. At six months, 34 percent did not endorse OHF and five percent did not report confidence with OHSE. Using the generalized linear mixed model, the percent change from baseline to six months in caregivers disagreeing with OHF and endorsing OHSE was significant (P<0.05). A repeated measures analysis of variance test determined the relationship between the effects of treatment and time on OHF and OHSE. No difference was found in OHF and OHSE beliefs over time between groups (P>0.05); however, a significant effect was found on OHF change over time within subjects (P<0.05).
Conclusions: There was no statistically significant difference in endorsement of OHF or OHSE between groups at six months. However, within all subjects, OHF beliefs became less endorsed and OHSE confidence improved over time.
Fenning, Rachel, Director. Leon Strauss Autism Clinic at The Claremont Autism Center. Simon-Strauss Foundation, 2025, $5,000.
Harris, Alison M., Chandlyr M. Denaro*, and Cathy L. Reed. “Aperiodic activity masks sensorimotor mu suppression during human action observation.” Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, vol. 20, issue 1, 2025, nsaf059.
Abstract: In electroencephalography (EEG), action execution (AE) is reliably associated with reductions in the mu rhythm, a periodic oscillation (8–14 Hz) over sensorimotor cortex. Similar patterns of “mu suppression” have been reported during observations of others’ actions, leading to claims that the mu rhythm indexes motor contributions to social perception. However, evidence for mu suppression during action observation (AO) is mixed, possibly due to methodological considerations (e.g. sample size, recording sites) and perceptual and attentional confounds. Moreover, measurements of periodic oscillations may be conflated with underlying aperiodic (“1/f-like”) neural activity, potentially influencing estimation of the EEG power spectrum. Here we examined the influence of aperiodic factors on mu suppression using 128-channel EEG in a large sample (N = 109), both during AE and in an AO task with appropriate visual and attentional controls. Whereas AE was consistently associated with significant mu suppression, we initially failed to find significant mu suppression for AO, suggesting that attentional and perceptual confounds may bias mu estimation during AO. However, removing the aperiodic component restored mu suppression over central electrodes. Although significant, mu suppression for AO appears less robust than originally reported, with aperiodic activity contributing to variability in the estimation of mu suppression during AO.
Tong*, Jessica, and Wei-Chin Hwang (illustrated by Landi Jiang*). Food is my love language: An interactive story guide to expressing love. Self-published, 2025.
Abstract: https://jessicatong8.github.io/afd-story/
Hwang, Wei-Chin, Jessica Tong*, and K.C. Labarda*. “The 6 love languages parent-child scale: Food as a love language.” Copyrighted questionnaire, 2025.
Hwang, Wei-Chin, and K. Fujimoto. “Acculturative Family Distancing Measure: Young Children and Parent Version.” Copyrighted questionnaire, 2025.
DeMatteo, David, Daniel A. Krauss, Sarah Fishel, and Kellie Wiltsie. Forensic Mental Health Practice and the Law: A Primer for Clinicians, Researchers, and Consultants. Oxford University Press, 2025.
Abstract: Forensic mental health professionals provide a range of services to courts, attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and correctional facilities. Yet despite the importance of understanding the law, most forensic mental health professionals do not have any formal legal training, which can make it challenging for them to develop a sufficient understanding of relevant legal cases, rules, and statutes. Forensic Mental Health Practice and the Law is an up-to-date, scholarly, and comprehensive primer that provides foundational knowledge about the laws most relevant to forensic practice. The authors address topics that are most applicable to forensic mental health professionals in their varied roles as clinicians, researchers, and consultants, including relevant court cases, statutes, court rules, administrative regulations, and ethical standards and guidelines. As they show, having knowledge of the legal system and relevant laws can lead to several benefits for forensic mental health professionals, including increased competence in performing forensic mental health assessments, conducting forensically relevant research, providing consultation to the legal system, and communicating results to legal decision-makers. To this end, the book offers discussion of exemplar state laws that differ markedly from federal law, examples of majority and minority approaches among the states to certain legal topics, and detailed tables that provide citations to the relevant laws in all 50 states.
Staal, Mark A., David M. Corey, Paul J. Dean, David DeMatteo, Daniel A. Krauss, Larry K. Lewis, Christopher A. Myers, Daniel J. Neller, James A. Stephenson, Philip S. Trompetter, and Jeffrey N. Younggren. “Professional practice guidelines for operational psychology: An executive summary.” American Psychologist, vol. 80, issue 5, July-August 2025, pp. 844-855.
Abstract: Operational psychologists provide a variety of psychological services in support of national security, national defense, and public safety. Their work may include the assessment of personnel for high-risk positions, consultation to investigations and crisis negotiations, support to military or intelligence training and operations, or other types of psychological and behavioral assessments. The practice of operational psychology differs in important ways from other practice areas and has developed significantly over the past 20 years. Given developments in the field, debate about the proper roles of psychologists in national security settings, and psychologists’ ongoing need for guidance, these Professional Practice Guidelines for Operational Psychology are provided to benefit operational psychologists, the recipients of their services, and other affected parties.
Dvoskin, Joel A., Daniel A. Krauss, and David DeMatteo. “Citation accuracy, misinformation, and harmless error in American Psychological Association amicus curiae briefs: Commentary on Marcus et al.” American Psychologist, vol. 80, issue 7, October 2025, pp. 994-996.
Abstract: Based on a review of 16 recently submitted amicus curiae briefs by the American Psychological Association (APA) to the Supreme Court of the United States and other important courts, Marcus et al. (2025) strongly suggest that these briefs contain a significant number of inaccurate citations. They argue that these miscitations (a) misinform the court about important psychological findings, (b) could lead to significant injustice and harm, and (c) jeopardize the reputation of the APA vis-à-vis the courts and public. In this commentary, while acknowledging that inaccurate citations should be corrected, we take issue with (a) the manner in which Marcus et al. coded APA’s amicus curiae briefs, (b) the significance of the problems created by these miscitations, and (c) the authors’ misunderstanding of courts’ review and use of amicus curiae briefs in judicial decision making. In the end, while agreeing there might be a need for additional review to prevent inaccurate citation in amicus curiae briefs, we argue that most of the inaccurate citations are likely harmless errors with little effect on APA’s reputation or court decisions.
Levin, Shana, Aleksandra Rusowicz, and Felicia Pratto. “Threats to resources and cultural values: Functional pathways to positive and negative intergroup emotions.” International Journal of Intercultural Relations, vol. 105, March 2025, 102109.
Abstract: We explore how certain intergroup emotions stem from aspects of intercultural relationships and how the emotions motivate actions to change the intercultural relationship. Consistent with threat-based approaches to prejudice, we propose that these emotions are adaptive responses to two structural dimensions of intergroup relations, resource competition and cultural value threat, and influence what intergroup actions people want to take. Furthermore, our framework considers the pivotal role of group power. Using a stratified random sample of 189 Lebanese Arabs in structured interviews about attitudes toward Americans, we found that positive and negative emotions along the cultural value dimension (respect and disgust/contempt toward Americans) related especially strongly to factors that sensitize and protect the group against threats to values: right-wing authoritarianism, perceived cultural inferiority, and value threat. In parallel, the positive and negative emotions along the resource dimension (sympathy and anger toward Americans) related especially strongly to factors that sensitize and protect the group against threats to material resources and position in the social hierarchy: counter-dominance orientation, goal incompatibility, and economic threat. Disgust/contempt was the strongest predictor of opposition to nonviolent and support for violent actions against Americans. Other intergroup emotions (fear and envy) outside the two-dimensional model were also explored. We propose an integrative framework of functional pathways to positive and negative intergroup emotions based on the dual process model, and moderation of the function of the resource pathway by group power.
Pratto, Felicia, Shana Levin, Aleksandra Rusowicz, J.N. Rasmus Möring, and Anthony F. Lemieux. “Political violence versus violent extremism: A social dominance theory approach.” The Cambridge Handbook of the Psychology of Violent Extremism, edited by Milan Obaidi and Jonas Kunst. Cambridge University Press, 2025, pp. 301-322.
Abstract: We consider why people use political violence from the perspective of whether they wish to enforce group dominance or equality and whether they perceive the current intergroup power structure to be legitimate or illegitimate. The intersection of these desires for group dominance vs. equality and perceived system legitimacy vs. illegitimacy captures the possibility of four different goals of political violence: to maintain the current social hierarchy, to reduce inequality among groups, to maintain the structure of group-based dominance but with a new group in the hegemonic or subordinate position, or to keep an otherwise oppressed group in a dominant position to protect it from further harm. We contend that using violence to attempt to accomplish any of these power motives is political violence, and that differentiating political violence according to these four underlying motives is essential for developing informed intervention strategies. Furthermore, rather than defining certain forms of political violence as “extremist” in reference to “norms” that may not be shared, or with respect to whether violence is performed by governmental actors or their agents (vs. against them), we define extremist violence as being outside specified principles, such as human rights and international humanitarian law, regardless of the actor.
Folivi*, Folly, Chandlyr M. Denaro*, Alan A. Hartley, Cindy M. Bukach, Jane W. Couperus, and Catherine L. Reed. “The cognitive instability aspect of impulsivity predicts the ERN: An ERP study.” International Journal of Psychophysiology, vol. 214, August 2025, 113206.
Abstract: Introduction: Defined as a tendency to act without thinking or considering the consequences, impulsivity may affect the ability to detect and respond to errors. However, impulsivity is a multidimensional construct with attentional, motor and non-planning components, among others. Not all aspects of impulsivity may relate to error monitoring. In this event-related potential (ERP) study we used an individual difference approach with a large sample of healthy young adults (n = 261) and the flanker task to explore what specific facets of impulsivity were predictive of error monitoring as indexed by the error-related negativity (ERN). Methods: The Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) was used to measure impulsivity and its subcomponents. A visual flanker task was administered to elicit the commission of errors and the associated ERN. Results: BIS-11 total scores did not correlate with ERN amplitude. Using an exploratory strategy, we first regressed scores for six previously identified components of impulsivity on the ERN, finding a significant coefficient for cognitive instability. Because internal consistency was low, we next conducted a principal component analysis of the 30 BIS-11 items; three factors emerged: planning, impetuosity and cognitive instability. When the three scale scores were regressed on ERN amplitudes, only cognitive instability (“racing thoughts”) was predictive, associating greater cognitive instability with reduced ERN amplitudes. Conclusions: Increases in the cognitive instability aspect of impulsivity predicts reduced ERN amplitudes, which may be related to individual differences in the motivational salience of errors.
Denaro*, Chandlyr M., Alan A. Hartley, Jane W. Couperus, Cindy M. Bukach, and Catherine L. Reed. “Procrastination and anxiety aspects of self-control predict individual differences in the mismatch negativity (MMN).” International Journal of Psychophysiology, vol. 214, August 2025, 113202.
Abstract: Self-control failures are often attributed to a lack of top-down behavioral regulation. Self-report measures of self-control reflect higher-level cognitive appraisals of behavioral control and lower-level innate temperamental traits associated with reactive processes. However, few studies have examined the extent to which different aspects of self-control relate to reactive processes. Using a large sample (n = 246), we investigated whether individual differences in six self-control trait measures were predictive of low-level processing indexed by the mismatch negativity (MMN) elicited from a passive auditory oddball task. Larger MMNs are associated with greater prediction error when the input stimulus conflicts with expectation. Self-control traits were measured by effortful control, perfectionism, impulsiveness, procrastination, perceived stress, and anxiety scales. We assumed personality traits develop around innate differences in reaction to environmental changes, resulting in differential adult expressions of self-control reflected in the six traits. All but perfectionism and perceived stress correlated with MMN amplitudes: Greater self-control associated with smaller MMNs; stronger negative traits associated with larger MMNs. When the correlated measures were entered into a backwards multiple regression on MMN amplitudes, procrastination and anxiety remained in the model as significant, relatively independent contributors. Procrastination may reflect a top-down modulation of underlying reactivity. Trait anxiety may reflect a basic temperament of greater reactivity to environmental change. Individuals with strong innate reactivity and weaker top-down processes may be hypervigilant to deviations from expectation, producing larger prediction errors and MMNs. Self-control failures may reflect reduced top-down control, when the balance in cortical activity favors reactive systems over the prefrontal cortex.
Joshi*, Jasmin, Chandlyr M. Denaro*, Alan A. Hartley, and Catherine L. Reed. “Complex span measures of working memory do not mediate the effects of age on the P3 and N400 ERPs.” Aging Brain, vol. 7, number 1, 2025, 100140.
Abstract: Working memory (WM), the temporary maintenance of a limited amount of information in an accessible state, is required for the performance of many tasks. Studies have shown that WM demands are related to the neural processing of tasks requiring attention: Age affects the ERP components associated with WM context updating processes in the visual oddball task (P3) and semantic processing in the word-pair judgment task (N400). This study investigated whether WM capacity measured by complex span tasks mediates the effects of age on these ERPs. Younger adults (YA, n = 44, ages 18–23 yr) and older adults (OA, n = 41, ages 69–89 yr) completed operation, reading, and symmetry complex span tasks and two ERP tasks (P3/visual oddball; N400/word-pair judgment). Results showed age-related differences for all complex span tests. Principal components analysis of these tests showed a single factor for both groups, so a combined WM capacity factor score was created. Regressions of age group and WM factor score on P3 and N400 amplitudes and latencies showed that OAs had relatively lower amplitudes and longer latencies. However complex span was not related to P3 or N400 amplitudes or latencies and that result was the same for younger and older adults; that is, complex span did not mediate the age effects. WM processes indexed by the P3 and N400 components appear to be different from those elicited by complex span tasks. Attentional control processes of WM influence oddball and semantic judgement tasks more than storage components.
Harris, Alison M., Chandlyr M. Denaro*, and Cathy L. Reed. “Aperiodic activity masks sensorimotor mu suppression during human action observation.” Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, vol. 20, issue 1, 2025, nsaf059.
Abstract: In electroencephalography (EEG), action execution (AE) is reliably associated with reductions in the mu rhythm, a periodic oscillation (8–14 Hz) over sensorimotor cortex. Similar patterns of “mu suppression” have been reported during observations of others’ actions, leading to claims that the mu rhythm indexes motor contributions to social perception. However, evidence for mu suppression during action observation (AO) is mixed, possibly due to methodological considerations (e.g. sample size, recording sites) and perceptual and attentional confounds. Moreover, measurements of periodic oscillations may be conflated with underlying aperiodic (“1/f-like”) neural activity, potentially influencing estimation of the EEG power spectrum. Here we examined the influence of aperiodic factors on mu suppression using 128-channel EEG in a large sample (N = 109), both during AE and in an AO task with appropriate visual and attentional controls. Whereas AE was consistently associated with significant mu suppression, we initially failed to find significant mu suppression for AO, suggesting that attentional and perceptual confounds may bias mu estimation during AO. However, removing the aperiodic component restored mu suppression over central electrodes. Although significant, mu suppression for AO appears less robust than originally reported, with aperiodic activity contributing to variability in the estimation of mu suppression during AO.
Reed, Catherine, Primary Investigator. “Collaborative Proposal: Level II Preparing Undergraduates for Research in STEM-related fields Using Electrophysiology (PURSUE).” Supplement, CMC: $71,078.
Abstract: This award is a supplement to my PURSUE grant to support a full-year sabbatical. The PURSUE project is a collaborative initiative to facilitate the training of undergraduates in cognitive electrophysiology. See our website (https://pursue.richmond.edu/) to see our grant activities and outcomes. The grant has created instructional tools and teaching materials to guide educators in developing curricula for EEG/ERP classrooms and lab environments. Its database also provides the data for multiple research articles with student co-authors.
Negrov, Alexander I., and Ronald E. Riggio. Leadership in Ukraine: Studies During Wartime. Edward Elgar, 2025, 176 pp.
Abstract: This insightful book examines the significant shifts in Ukrainian ideals and perceptions of leadership during wartime, particularly among young people. Alexander I. Negrov and Ronald E. Riggio underline the increased value placed on democratic and supportive leadership, identifying key lessons for leaders in extreme circumstances.
Ait Sidi Mhamed, El Mustapha, and Ronald E. Riggio. “How Instrumental Leadership Promotes Affective Commitment: Social Skills as Mediator.” Journal of Leadership Studies, vol. 19, issue 1, Spring 20205, e70001.
Abstract: Employee-organization linkages have been the subject of considerable scholarly and managerial attention. The findings of this research study provide empirical evidence that instrumental leadership attributes predict affective commitment among employees in their organizations. More specifically, based on their expertise and environmental knowledge, instrumental leaders endorse attributes that help followers adhere to the organization's vision through providing timely feedback and facilitating tasks. Instrumental leadership thus promotes a positive workplace in which affective commitment is encouraged. The sample included 226 followers from a major telecom company in Morocco. Employees reported their levels of affective commitment, completed the Social Skills Inventory, and rated their supervisor's instrumental leadership. Results suggest that instrumental leadership may play a role in building employees’ affective commitment and that more socially skilled employees may be more likely to develop healthy leader-follower relationships, resulting in affective commitment to the organization as a whole.
Riggio, Ronald E., and Eric McDermott. “Concrete steps for bridging the scholar-practitioner divide.” Industrial and Organizational Psychology: Perspectives on Science and Practice, vol. 18, issue 2, June 2025, pp. 226-230.
Abstract: The scholar–practitioner divide in industrial and organizational (I-O) psychology is something that has been of concern for quite some time, as Voss et al. (2025) clearly note. Yet, it is not enough to simply encourage scholars and practitioners to collaborate more on sharing knowledge and collaborating on research endeavors. Good intentions may not lead to actions (Ajzen, 1985). Deliberate steps need to be taken on both sides of the divide to truly make research contributions that are rigorous and more relevant to the world of work. To that end, this commentary is coauthored by a scholar who has tried to bridge the divide and work closely with practitioners throughout his career and a practitioner and executive who has actively engaged with academics on research.
Riggio, Ronald E., Rick Jacobs, and Greg Loviscky. “Using Assessment Centers for Leader Development and Assessment.” Moving the Needle: What We Know (and Don’t Know) About Developing Leaders, edited by David M. Rosch, Scott J. Allen, and Daniel M. Jenkins. Emerald, 2025, pp. 27-38.
Riggio, Ronald E. “Assessment-Driven Leadership Development: Case Commentary.” Case Studies in I-O Psychology: Practical Applications of Science, edited by Rick Jacobs and Douglas H. Reynolds. SIOP, 2025, pp. 169-182.
Abstract: This commentary focuses on four case studies that are a representative cross section of how organizations are using state-of-the-art assessment methods to develop leaders. They also demonstrate the role that leaders play in complex endeavors, including changing the organization’s culture, identifying people of high potential for leadership positions, and focusing on continuous improvement of leaders. The cases provide good examples of how leadership development programs should be created, implemented, and evaluated. They contain important lessons in obtaining buy-in for such programs from top-level leadership, those being developed, and all members of the organization who are affected either by being led or asked to assess the quality of the organization’s leaders and leadership. Focusing on both what works and what didn’t, the case studies offer critical lessons for how to improve assessment-driven leadership development.
Crawley, Alan, and Ronald E. Riggio. “Emotions Expressed in Body Movements, Postures, Gait, and Dance.” Body Language Communication, edited by Derek Chadee and Aleksandra Kostić. Palgrave, 2024, pp. 235-258.
Abstract: This chapter explores the evolution of nonverbal communication, focusing on how body movements and postures express emotions through a probabilistic relationship between them and emotions. It argues that nonverbal communication, influenced by natural selection, shaped a contingent repertoire of behaviors associated with emotions. The main three arguments are: (1) the nonverbal modalities used to express emotions depend on the type of affect felt at the moment and the efficiency of that modality; (2) the modalities of nonverbal displays of emotions are interrelated such that redundancy is built into the communication system, and (3) evolution has endowed humans with a probabilistic repertoire of behaviors associated with emotions. The chapter examines the relationship between inner states and typology of nonverbal cues, including body movements, gait, posture, and dancing, emphasizing their parakinesic properties such as intensity, speed, and duration. It highlights that while certain patterns of body movements are generally associated with specific emotions, their expression and meaning are complex and vary depending on context, culture, and individual differences, leading to different degrees of recognition accuracy. Future research could probe nonverbals with more ecologically valid methods, sidetracking exaggerated posed movements, deliberate portrayals, and forced-choice answers in the design. This would enhance our understanding of how emotions are conveyed through these various forms of body expressions and postures, expanding our understanding of the richness and depth of nonverbal communication in human emotional displays in modalities other than the facial expressions.
Riggio, Ronald E., Maike Kugler, and Lukas Huntington*. “Followership theory.” Leadership Theories, Frameworks, and Approaches in Practice, edited by Kathy L. Guthrie and Rich Whitney. Emerald, 2025, pp. 199-209.
Pitichat, Thiraput, and Ronald E. Riggio. “Transformational leadership.” Leadership Theories, Frameworks, and Approaches in Practice, edited by Kathy L. Guthrie and Rich Whitney. Emerald, 2025, pp. 133-143.
Newstead, Toby, and Ronald Riggio. “Leading with Virtues: Strategies to Foster Equity and Inclusion.” Encyclopedia of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Spirituality, edited by Joan Marques. Springer, 2025.
Abstract: Virtues are inherently good human qualities. Virtues such as courage, justice, and wisdom are the building blocks of good character and the social glue that sustains human community (Newstead et al., 2018). Virtues are universal, learnable, and the linchpin between individual and collective wellbeing.
Mazela, Monika A., Mark J. Huff, and Sharda Umanath. Suggestibility to additive versus contradictory misinformation: Effects of visual and auditory post-event information.” Journal of Cognitive Psychology, vol. 37, issue 4, 2025, pp. 308-322.
Abstract: In misinformation studies, contradictory misinformation refers to misleading details that contrast specific details in an original event whereas additive misinformation refers to misleading details that supplement an original event. Using videos as original event materials, we compared suggestibility to additive versus contradictory misinformation types across three experiments wherein misinformation was presented in either a written or auditory format. When the post-event narrative was written (Experiments 1 and 3), additive misinformation was greater than contradictory; however, when an auditory narrative was used (Experiment 2), additive and contradictory misinformation rates were equivalent. In Experiment 3, reading latencies for the written post-event narrative were measured. Suggestibility to additive misinformation again was greater than contradictory, but reading latencies were slower in post-event sentences embedded with additive than contradictory misinformation. The increased potency of additive misinformation in visual narratives may reflect participants slowing their reading rates on additive sentences, leading to greater encoding of these items.
Umanath, Sharda, Jennifer H. Coane, Juliane T. Renaker*, Kathrine Whitman, Alexis A. Lee*, and Stacy Kim. “Using the phenomenology of knowledge-based retrieval failures in younger and older adults to characterize proximity to retrieval success and identify a Zone of Proximal Retrieval.” Journal of Memory and Language, vol. 140, February 2025, 104582.
Abstract: Across the lifespan, accumulated knowledge can become inaccessible, with everyone having experienced retrieval failures. These failures are accompanied by varied mental experiences (phenomenology), but little research has been done to distinctly characterize their full range. The present studies examined the extent to which varying failures, ranging from imminent retrieval like tip-of-the-tongue states to unavailability, are associated with distinct phenomenological experiences. Proposing a Proximity to Retrieval Success framework for retrieval failures, we hypothesize that the probability of retrieval success (accessibility) will vary systematically from high to low, with intermediate probabilities reflecting a Zone of Proximal Retrieval. Older and younger adults answered age-normed, short-answer general knowledge questions and selected one of four phenomenological retrieval failure experiences when unable to answer. In Experiment 1, participants completed a subsequent multiple-choice test, whereas Experiments 2 and 3 involved correct answer feedback before completing a final short-answer test. Consistently, and in line with predictions from the Proximity to Retrieval Success framework, accuracy on the subsequent test systematically increased as a function of the selected phenomenological retrieval failure state’s proximity to the accessibility threshold, with the lowest accuracy for items judged as not known. These findings indicate robust successful metacognition linking phenomenological experiences of retrieval failures with behavioral memory performance. Implications for the practical and theoretical usefulness of this work are discussed.
Xuan, Yan, Mackenna Greenberg, Sharda Umanath, and Jennifer H. Coane. “Flashbulb and first-hand memories for campus closings due to COVID-19: consistency and change.” Memory, vol. 33, issue 1, 2025, pp. 84-99.
Abstract: Flashbulb memories (FBM) refer to the vivid and detailed retrieval of the reception context of a highly salient event. We examined FBMs and personal memories for one college’s sudden transition to remote learning due to COVID-19. We explored whether the announcement of the campus’ closure resulted in FBMs, how respondents felt about the decision, and the impacts of the decision. Employing a two-wave longitudinal survey conducted in March and May 2020, participants responded to questions regarding learning about the campus’ closure and a control memory (an event from the same week chosen by participants). Participant reports suggested they did form FBMs, and FBMs were more consistent over time than control memories. Confidence did not differ across memory types. Additionally, we observed an initial strong positive response to the decision to close the campus – a sentiment that intensified over time. Lastly, participants’ emotional responses transitioned from negative feelings in the first wave of testing to more neutral feelings in the second. This work offers a unique exploration of FBMs within the broader context of a global health crisis that intruded into daily life, effectively merging the typically public and distant nature of flashbulb events with first-hand, personal experience.
Hou*, Claire, Sharda Umanath, Amy Corning, and Magdalena Abel. “You don’t understand me! But, I do! Awareness of cross-generational differences in collective remembering of national historic events.” Memory, vol. 33, issue 1, 2025, pp. 45-58.
Abstract: Collective memories refer to a group’s shared representation of the past, which are slow to change over time. In this study, representative samples of American and German Younger Adults (YAs) and Older Adults (OAs) rated the emotional valence of 12 national historic events. Critically, both age groups were also asked to take on the perspective of the other: OAs imagined how YAs feel, whereas YAs imagined how OAs feel about the same events today. The results replicated previous findings that OAs and YAs hold differing opinions on numerous events. Both age groups successfully recognised these different collective perceptions between generations to some extent. Yet, OAs were more accurate in the perspective-taking task, with YAs consistently underestimating the intensity of OAs’ emotional valence. Self-reported perspective-taking strategies suggest that OAs relied more on stereotypes and considered education, while knowledge from specific people was universally used to rate the other age group’s perspective.
Whitman*, Kathrine, Talia Barrett, Jennifer H. Coane, and Sharda Umanath. “Cognition and Aging.” Psychology of Aging: A Biopsychosocial Perspective, edited by Erin L. Woodhead and Brian P. Yochim. Springer Publishing Company, 2024.
Zhou, Steven, and Graziella Pagliarulo McCarron. From First Job to Career: Research and Narratives. Cambridge University Press, 2025, 206 pp.
Abstract: From First Job to Career is an anthology that weaves together inspiring first-job stories from people across diverse industries and backgrounds, offering career seekers of all ages the chance to connect with relatable experiences and hard-earned wisdom. This collection reveals the different paths people take in shaping their careers and serves as a resource for readers to identify with and learn from others' journeys. Paired with a comprehensive review of research in vocational psychology and career counseling, the book distills key principles and provides actionable resources for navigating the job search and building a meaningful career.
Nag, Monisha, Desmond Leung, Steven Zhou, and Bharati Belwalkar. “Use of Artificial Intelligence in Industrial-Organizational Psychology: Current Trends and Future Outlook.” The Industrial Organizational Psychologist, vol. 63, issue 2, Autumn 2025, pp. 63-68.
Abstract: We are seeing steadily increasing interest and use of artificial intelligence (AI) among I-O psychologists across the science and practice spectrum, evidenced in part by the numerous well-attended AI-related sessions at the SIOP Annual Conference in recent years. Given this surge in interest in all things AI among I-O psychologists, the SIOP Membership Committee partnered with researchers Steven Zhou (assistant professor at Claremont McKenna College) and Bharati Belwalkar (senior researcher at American Institutes for Research) to specifically understand the impetus and inhibitors of using generative AI (GenAI) in I-O psychology research and practice.
Zhou, Steven, Amy Lebrecht, Pawinee Pithayarungsarit, and Connor Monke. “The Gatekeepers of Academia: Investigating Bias in Journal Publication Across Topics, Author Backgrounds, and Institutions.” Learned Publishing, vol. 38, issue 4, October 2025, e2022.
Abstract: Building on evidence of the “gatekeeper” effect in a publish or perish culture whereby faculty authors have a more difficult time publishing some studies compared to others, the present study investigates potential biases based on the content of the study. We explore potential relationships with the journal quality (i.e., do higher quality journals publish more liberal or conservative leaning content?), author backgrounds, and institutional characteristics. Using a dataset of over 20 000 article titles and abstracts on 12 controversial topics (e.g., DEI training, gun control), we applied both human and GPT-supported coding to assess bias. Results suggest a slight liberal bias across topics, such that more liberal articles were published, with notable differences based on the topic. Interestingly, journal impact factors and author demographics had only weak relationships with bias ratings. Our findings challenge the assumption that political bias heavily influences academic publishing, suggesting instead that the focus rightly remains on research quality. However, the study highlights the need for further exploration of factors like author self-censorship and editorial gatekeeping that could influence the publication of controversial research.
Lee, Philseok, Mina Son, Steven Zhou, Sean Joo, Zihao Jia, and Virginia Cheng. “The Journey of Forced Choice Measurement Over 80 Years: Past, Present, and Future.” Organizational Research Methods, vol. 28, issue 4, October 2025, pp. 680-722.
Abstract: Over the past two decades, forced-choice (FC) measures have received considerable attention from researchers and practitioners in industrial and organizational psychology. Despite the growing body of research on FC measures, there has not yet been a comprehensive review synthesizing the diverse lines of research. This article bridges this gap by presenting a systematic review of post-2000 literature on FC measures, addressing ten critical questions, including: 1) validity evidence, 2) faking resistance, 3) FC IRT models, 4) FC test design, 5) FC measure development, 6) test-taker reactions and response processes, 7) measurement and predictive bias, 8) reliability, 9) computerized adaptive testing, and 10) random responding. The review adopts a historical perspective, tracing the development of FC measures and highlighting key empirical findings, methodological advances, current trends, and future directions. By synthesizing a substantial body of evidence across multiple research streams, this article serves as a valuable resource, providing insights into the psychometric properties, theoretical underpinnings, and practical applications of FC measures in organizational contexts such as personnel selection, development, and assessment.
Zhou, Steven, H. Anne Weiss, Beth McCuskey, and Louis Tay. “College Student Well-Being: Explaining Academic and Behavioral Outcomes from a Representative College Student Sample.” Journal of Happiness Studies, vol. 26, number 75, 2025.
Abstract: Recently, positive psychology has focused on measuring and improving college student well-being as a means of combatting growing concerns over student well-being (e.g., rising mental health challenges). Moreover, student well-being should be considered holistically, incorporating a range of measures beyond subjective well-being (SWB) to include aspects of relationships, purpose, and grit. In the present study, we use a novel holistic measure of student well-being, applied to two large samples of students to test its psychometric properties and assess predictive validity of academic and behavioral outcomes (e.g., grades, attendance at courses, student organization involvement). Well-being modestly predicted grades, course attendance, time spent in academic buildings, and student organization involvement. Relative importance analysis found that the grit theme in the well-being measure was the most important, followed by positive and negative SWB.
Zaccaro, Stephen J., and Steven Zhou. “Edwin A. Fleishman (1927-2021).” Key Thinkers in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, edited by Laura Koppes Bryan and Andrew J. Vinchur. Routledge, 2025.