Research
Ongoing Projects With Opportunities for Involvement (Fall 2024)
Transfeminized people and their relationship with motherhood
This project is focused on developing an initial exploration of the relationship people who identify as transfeminine with motherhood as a role, identity, position, possibility, etc… It is interested in exploring and analyzing the experiences of transfeminine people with the idea of motherhood, and wether they feel this as something that is accessible to them, as something they can embody, or as something that is impossible, even prohibited. Furthermore, it is also interested in looking at the relationship they might have with the idea of being or becoming mothers by way of their own desire to be or not be mothers at some point. This will be supplemented with a discourse analysis informed by a poststructuralist and transfemininist framework that will center how other discourses (social, political, cultural, economic, medical, legal, etc) might intersect with their discourses in order to identify how power produces a subject that has a particular relationship with motherhood. Not only that, but one of the aims of this study is to also identify subjective, emotional, social and personal needs of transfeminine people who engage with the notion of motherhood in any way.
Primary Investigator: Cleo A. Alonso Cintron | alonf150@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Opportunity: Literature review, IRB.
Becoming a Mother in an Uncertain World: Exploring Matrescence and the Psychological Impact of Climate Change on New Mothers
Matrescence encompasses the myriad psychological, social, cultural, and existential changes which occur during the transition into motherhood (inclusively defined). This qualitative study employs the Listening Guide method of psychological inquiry to explore the complex and evolving process of Matrescence (the transformational process of becoming a mother) within the context of the current environmental crisis. Exploring the fears and hopes of new mothers, this research aims to capture the emotional and psychological impact of climate change on their identities and psychological wellbeing. Through an in-depth exploration of their inner voices and unconscious processes, the study will shed light on how the realities of an uncertain future shape their experiences of this complex transitional life stage, one which is greatly understudied particularly within a critical and psychoanalytic framework.
Primary Investigator: Sonora Goldman | golds098@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Opportunity: Need assistance with literature review and recruitment. Will have future opportunities for transcription and analysis. Those interested in Matrescence or the Listening Guide method please reach out.
The effect of 'Instagram vs Reality' content on body image and well-being
The aim of this study is to explore whether “Instagram vs Reality” content can improve body image outcomes, lessen disordered eating cognitions, and improve mood, relative to viewing only idealized Instagram content. Additionally, it will explore if this effect is moderated by media ideals internalization, state appearance comparisons, and frequency of self-photo manipulation.
Primary Investigator: Sophie Brown| brows444@newschool.edu
Methodology: Quantitative
Opportunity: Possible help with data analysis, manuscript preparation, and making a poster/presenting at a conference.
Weight Stigma: A Review of Experienced Perpetration
This review will examine the ways that weight stigma is understood through the lens of different methods of preparation. This review will highlight forms of experienced weight stigma both from others and from the self. This project plans to meet biweekly and is a great way to understand navigating psychological research. If this topic interests you in any way, feel free to reach out!
Primary Investigator: Claire McGinley | mcgic046@newschool.edu
Methodology: Literature Review/Reading group
The Nullifying Effect of Negative Birth Experiences: Exploring the Relationship between Birth Experience, Self-Objectification and Postpartum Well-Being
This study explores the impact of negative birthing experiences on postpartum well-being through the lens of self-objectification. While previous perinatal self-objectification research has focused on body image and appearance satisfaction, none has examined self-objectification as it pertains to self-dehumanization. That is, the aspects of self-objectification that capture a loss of subjectivity. Research suggests that women may respond to negative birth experiences and obstetric violence by engaging in this kind of self-objectification/dehumanization; however, this has yet to be empirically tested. Using a mixed-methods, cross-sectional design, this study examines how perceptions of birthing experience influence postpartum self-objectification through domains reflecting a loss of subjectivity – feelings of invisibility and lack of autonomy. Further, it aims to examine whether the joint predictive power of childbirth experiences and self-objectification will be stronger than childbirth experiences alone in predicting postpartum well-being. Given the lack of measures capturing nullifying aspects of self-objectification/self-dehumanization in the postpartum population, qualitative questions will explore aspects of these experiences missing from current measures. Thematic analysis will be used to analyze the qualitative data.
Primary Investigator: Rebekah Nathan | nathr545@newschool.edu
Methodology: Mixed Methods (mostly qualitative)
Opportunity: Literature review, IRB
Research
Fall 2023
Seismic Shifts in the Abortion Access Landscape: The Abortion Access Worker Experience
This is a qualitative study of abortion access workers experiences and challenges. Abortion access workers, those who staff or volunteer for abortion funds and practical support organizations‚ constitute a critical component of the abortion access infrastructure, especially as they facilitate abortions for people who have less access to resources. This population has not been studied to date, and shedding light on their experiences, challenges, and needs is particularly vital during this critical time for abortion access; abortion funds and practical support organizations are bound to be more relied upon than ever now that Roe has been overturned.
Primary Investigator: Lily Nathan | nathl392@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Opportunity: May need assistance with transcript reviews, coding, and literature review. TBD.
Exploration of the relationship between endometriosis stigma, menstrual stigma, and depressive symptoms
This quantitative study explores the relationship between stigma and depression in endometriosis patients.
Primary Investigator: Deniz Kocas | kocah519@newschool.edu
Methodology: Quantitative
Opportunity: I have a large quantitative data set looking at endometriosis stigma, menstrual stigma, depressive symptoms, and body image. I’ll be using the data for my dissertation apart from the body image data. If anyone is interested in body image and would like to work on a project together, please let me know. I am looking to publish the results so we could also write a paper together for publication.
Navigating the Invisible: Understanding Bi+ Women’s Sexual Emotion Work Through an Intimate Justice Lens
Bisexual women (inclusively defined) face high risks for sexual and intimate partner violence and negative mental health outcomes. Evidence suggests that these outcomes are connected to unique forms of interpersonal stigma and discrimination, yet little research directly asks bisexual women, especially bisexual Women of Color, about these experiences within their sexual and romantic relationships. Using qualitative interviews with bisexual women, my dissertation addresses this gap by bringing together theories of emotion work and intimate justice to examine gendered and racialized power dynamics that shape bisexual women’s sexual lives.
Primary Investigator: Tonya Pavlenko | pavla296@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Opportunity: May need assistance with transcription.
Hunger Make Me a Modern Girl: Exploring food imagery on Instagram in relation to self-objectification, body image, and eating disordered behaviors
Instagram is often associated with negative body image, self-objectification, and eating disorders. Recently, the content viewed on Instagram has been found as a primary factor in this relationship. Research has yet to examine the impact of distinct content types on body image, body functionality, self-objectification, and mood before and after browsing an individual's personal Instagram. This study aims to understand the impact of a diverse range of Instagram content that is habitually consumed by young women through a within-group mixed methods study. In analyzing this data, patterns emerged. Images of bodies, fitness and food content were sighted as the most frequently viewed types of images. To more accurately understand this data, I will be creating a measure for exploring, coding, and understanding Instagram’s food imagery specifically and its impact on the dimensions of body-image, self- objectification, disordered eating and exercise behavior in women aged 18-25. My hope is to ground this novel measure in critical feminist theory, body image research and food and eating disorder research.
Primary Investigator: Claire McGinley | mcgic046@newschool.edu
Methodology: Mixed Methods
Opportunity: I will be creating a reading and discussion group to talk about and ground the coding manual in ongoing body image research and critical feminist theory.
Redefining ‘Burden’: Understanding Informal Caregiver Experiences
Informal caregivers (ICs) are typically unpaid caregivers who support activities of daily living for a family member or loved one. As individuals are beginning to live longer, this topic is growing within the global conversation of physical and mental health. Many examinations of informal caregiver experiences cite caregivers’ having various outcomes due to demographic characteristics, such as socioeconomic status, gender, and race. Within the same literature, studies also report caregivers experiencing higher rates of ‘burden’ than the general populace. This study seeks to examine race, gender, and financial costs, in relation to the experience of caregiver ‘burden’, and importantly, what is meant when the word ‘burden’ is used in caregiving contexts. If demographic characteristics are a moderating variable in caregiving experiences it would seem that ‘burden’ may relate to existing systematic inequalities that are possibly further exacerbated within healthcare contexts. This study used mixed methodology on a sample of approximately 40 participants who identified as informal caregivers. Results indicate high rates of burden and high rates of self reported physical health, except in participants caring for someone with cancer, who reported higher levels of burden. Qualitatively, participants indicated their race, gender, and finances play a role in moderating their experiences as a caregiver; namely related to gender social scripts, racial discrimination, and costs of formal services and treatment options.
Primary Investigator: Savanna Daquila | daqus201@newschool.edu
Methodology: Mixed Methods
Opportunity: I completed the first portion of my study, individuals from my study left emails and said they would be interested in a follow-up semi-structured interview (for further qual analysis), would need help transcribing.
Consensual Non-Monogamy: Internalized CNM Negativity and Attachment Styles
The research will investigate the nuanced and understudied domain of consensual non-monogamous (CNM) relationships. More specifically, it aims to identify an association between the attachment styles and the extent of internalized stigma, also referred to as 'internalized CNM negativity,' of individuals in CNM relationships. A modified version of the Reactions to Homophobia scale will be utilized to quantify the extent and prevalence of internalized CNM negativity experienced within the participant population. In addition, attachment styles will be assessed using the Experiences in Close Relationships short-form scale. The main objective of this study is to identify if there is a relationship between the degree of internalized CNM negativity and specific attachment styles, evaluating if individuals who possess more significant amounts of internalized CNM negativity are more likely to exhibit particular attachment styles in juxtaposition with others. The research employs minority stress theory to comprehend the data gathered, considering the influence of societal prejudice, inequitable treatment, and marginalization on the internalization of consensual non-monogamy negativity and the development of attachment styles. Given their divergence from traditional Western societal norms, this theoretical orientation is pertinent to CNM relationships. This theory illustrates the unique stressors experienced by marginalized communities and fosters an understanding of the broader societal factors that impact the psychological well-being and interpersonal dynamics of individuals participating in CNM relationships.
Primary Investigator: Ellis Jennings | jenne302@newschool.edu
Methodology: Quantitative
Opportunity: Literature review and recruitment, potentially additional assistance if interested.
Research
Ongoing projects (No current opportunities for involvement)
Giving voice to twins’ experience of twinship: A critique of the classical twin method and call for research beyond the binary
This project aims to (1) give voice to the twin population, whose subjective experiences remain elided in psychological research; (2) better understand twin experiences of embodiment due to unique biological variables, appearance-related dimensions, and socio-cultural factors relevant to the twin relationship; (3) offer a meta-account and critique of the classical twin method, focusing on empirical and ethical concerns.
Primary Investigator: Jessica Bush | bushj751@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
‘Miracle of technology’ or ‘playing God’? A qualitative exploration into the role of Judaism in religious Jewish patients’ decision-making on PGT-M for BRCA.
This study aims to investigate the decision-making process among religious Jewish individuals deciding on PGD for BRCA, and specifically how the role of Judaism influences their decision making.
Primary Investigator: Jessica Bush | bushj751@newschool.edu & Samantha Klein | kleis632@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
The lived experiences of young adults with facial differences: A qualitative study
The aim of the proposed, interview-based qualitative research project is to understand the lived experiences of young adults with facial differences in the US. More specifically, the proposed study seeks to center the craniofacial community’s voices through a bottom-up analysis and synthesis of qualitative data. In order to achieve it, a constructivist grounded theory methodology will be used. The research explores three main areas: sense of identity and intersectionality; discrimination and stigma; resilience and resistance. Key words: craniofacial community, identity, intersectionality, discrimination, resilience, disability, critical psychology, face equality.
Primary Investigator: Georgia Tania Karalioliou | karag519@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Experiences of Racial Commodification Among Asian American Egg Donors
Primary Investigator: Ellen Yom | yome810@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Research
Completed projects from the 2022-2023 academic year
On the Front Lines of a Double Pandemic: Exploring the Effects of COVID-19 and Anti-Asian Racism on Filipino American Woman Nurses
The purpose of this study is to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic and growing anti-Asian racism have impacted Filipino American woman nurses. Qualitative data will be collected through semi-structured interviews. Questions will focus on how Filipino American woman nurses have experienced the pandemic and anti-Asian racism and how their perceptions of their various identities may have changed. This study will reveal the challenges Filipino American woman nurses have faced during this tumultuous time and the ways they have managed and found support for these challenges. More generally, findings will broaden understanding of the pandemic’s impact on marginalized communities.
Primary Investigator: Courteney Koo | ckoo@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Patient-Provider interactions and its effects on psychosocial well-being when treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
This study is a follow-up to a pilot study on the relationship between body functionality, functionality appreciation, and mindfulness self-care in the PCOS population completed in Spring 2022. Qualitative results from the pilot study highlighted key challenges the PCOS population experienced with healthcare providers. This qualitative study focuses in on patient-provider interactions surrounding two commonly prescribed treatments for PCOS: weight management and hormonal contraceptives (IUDs, implants, birth control pills) within a broader context inclusive of 1) the experiences of child-free by choice individuals, 2) the experiences of trans and gender nonconformity individuals, 3) emerging information that the PCOS population is at elevated risk for disordered eating, anxiety, and depression. This study isn’t IRB approved yet but will be submitted for approval in Fall of 2022!
Primary Investigator: Sanjana Basker | basks949@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Fanfiction and Sexuality/Identity Development: A Systematic Literature Review (name still being finalized!)
We're investigating the literature currently published about fan fiction and psychology, with a special focus on identity development or sexuality development, with the intention to name new areas for research. Given fan fiction's immense role in online communities and its increasing relevance in mainstream media, the paucity of research on the subject is both interesting and surprising. We hope to affirm the possibility that fan fiction provides sexual scripts and a speculative space for romantic and sexual intimacy that queer youth may not receive elsewhere.
Primary Investigator: Sanjana Basker | basks949@newschool.edu & Samantha Klein | kleis632@newschool.edu
Methodology: Review Paper
Resident Mental Health
Primary Investigator: Deniz Kocas | kocah519@newschool.edu
Methodology: Mixed Methods
Research
Completed Projects from the 2021-2022 academic year
The Consciousness and Praxis of Black LGBTQ Parenting
This study investigates the praxis of Black LGBTQ parenting.
Primary Investigator: Felix Gabriel Lopez | lopef558@newschool.edu
Methodology: Mixed Methods
Peace Corps volunteers, unwanted sexual experiences and Institutional betrayal
This project aims to understand the impact of traumatic events that occur during Peace Corps service. Qualitative interviews were conducted with Returned Peace Corps volunteers focusing on unwanted sexual experiences and the response of the Peace Corps institution to these events.
Primary Investigator: Madeline Mckeon | mckem236@newschool.edu
Methodology: Mixed Methods
(Working Title) Re-learning Cultural Care: Exploring African-American Women's Navigation of Mental Health
Utilizing Feminist methodologies and Critical Race Theory applied to the field of Psychology, as a framework, the study will focus on ordinary Black women's stories of seeking and engaging with psychotherapy. This qualitative data will be evaluated through a narrative analysis, with the intention of evaluating, and if necessary revising, current methods around cultural competency in order to address racial and gendered disparities in care.
Primary Investigator: Kat Schonheyder | schok336@newschool.edu
Methodology: Qualitative
Patient Experiences of Acute Gynecological Emergencies
This study aims to understand patient experiences surrounding acute gynecological or reproductive emergencies, with a specific focus on adnexal torsion, ovarian cyst ruptures, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).
Primary Investigators: Samantha Klein | kleis632@newschool.edu
Project Status: Ongoing
Methodology: Qualitative
Opportunity: Assistance with literature Review, IRB Submission, Data Analysis.
Research
Completed projects from the 2020-2021 academic year
COVID-19 & Fertility
This study aims to investigate the impact of stressors, coping strategies, and socio-demographic variables on fertility-related quality of life among individuals seeking infertility treatment during the pandemic.
Primary Investigators: Tonya Pavlenko | pavla296@newschool.edu, Deniz Kocas | kocah519@newschool.edu
Project Status: Complete
Methodology: Mixed Methods
The Long-Term Medical Risks of Egg Donation: Contributions Through Psychology
Primary Investigator: Deniz Kocas | kocah519@newschool.edu, Tonya Pavlenko | pavla296@newschool.edu, Ellen Yom | yome810@newschool.edu
Project Status: Complete
Methodology: Theoretical
A Queer Second Adolescence: An Exploration of LGB Individuals and Identity Synthesis
This study aims to explore the experiences of LGB individuals in emerging adulthood looking at common themes and constructs.
Primary Investigators: Jeremy Kelleher | kellj306@newschool.edu
Project Status: Complete
Methodology: Qualitative
Pre-implantation genetic testing decisions in the age of social media
This study focuses on the experiences of using social media during the decision-making process for preimplantation genetic testing.
Primary Investigators: Deniz Kocas | kocah519@newschool.edu Samantha Klein | kleis632@newschool.edu
Project Status: Complete
Understanding Peer Support in Cancer Care
This study aims to understand the subjective experience of cancer survivor peer supporters, and the impact of their volunteering on their cancer survivorship.
Primary Investigator: Luciana Oliveira dos Santos
Project Status: Complete
Methodology: Qualitative
Embodiment and Body Image in Infertility
This study investigates the lived, embodied experience of impaired fertility in people who have the biological potential to carry a pregnancy.
Primary Investigators: Katrina Hacker | katrinahacker@newschool.edu
Project Status: Ongoing
Methodology: Quantitative
Opportunity: Maybe seeking assistance.
Men, Masculinity, and #MeToo
This project explores how individual men are making sense of #MeToo in their own lives using a discovery-oriented qualitative method derived from Carol Gilligan’s Listening Guide.
Primary Investigators: Ali Shames Dawson | shama288@newschool.edu
Project Status: Complete
Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy: An In-Depth, Qualitative Study of the Decision-Making Experience
This study focuses on the experiences of individuals deciding whether or not to undergo preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy.
Primary Investigators: Deniz Kocas | kocah519@newschool.edu Samantha Klein | kleis632@newschool.edu
Project Status: Complete
Methodology: Qualitative
Experiences of Asian and Asian American Egg Donors
This study aims to understand the ways that egg donation is organized around racial stereotypes. Questions will focus on donors’ experiences of racialized commodification and how they can differ among Asian and Asian American donors from various ethnic origins.
Primary Investigator: Ellen Yom | yome810@newschool.edu
Project Status: Ongoing
Methodology: Qualitative
Publications
A list of Dr. Lisa Rubin’s Publications can be found here