Domains of Research

At the HEART Lab, our research spans the intersection of adolescent development, romantic and family relationships, and the rapidly evolving digital world. Below are our core domains of research, each supported by multiple studies and scholarly publications.

Technology, Digital Communication, and Adolescent Relationships

Adolescents are growing up in a world where emojis, texts, and Instagram likes are central to connection. Our research investigates how digital interactions, ranging from loving DMs to harmful online behaviors, shape romantic and peer relationships, identity, and well-being. We also explore cutting-edge frontiers like virtual reality and AI in relationships.

Featured Studies:

CIELO Study · TIES Study · TAR Study · Romantic Touch Study in VR

Key Topics:

  • Digital dating & conflict

  • Social media and emotional reactivity

  • Technology-facilitated abuse

  • VR & AI-mediated connection

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Romantic Relationships Across Adolescence and Early Adulthood

From first crushes to serious partnerships, romantic experiences are central to adolescent development. We study the dynamics of romantic relationships using observational, physiological, and longitudinal methods to understand how these relationships unfold, resolve conflict, and shape life trajectories.

Featured Studies:
ASPIRE Study · PAL Study · TAR Study · Romantic Touch Study in VR

Key Topics:

  • Conflict resolution and communication

  • Emotional regulation and breakup recovery

  • Intimate partner violence (IPV)

  • Romantic development over time

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Family, Parenting, and Intergenerational Influences

Family environments lay the groundwork for adolescents' social and emotional development. We examine how parenting practices, early interventions, and family dynamics shape youth outcomes, from mental health and substance use to romantic relationship patterns in adulthood.

Featured Studies:
PAL Study · ASSIST Study

Key Topics:

  • Family Check-Up intervention

  • Parenting and behavioral development

  • Longitudinal risk and resilience pathways

  • Cross-generational transmission of behaviors

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Identity, Mental Health, and School Engagement

How do adolescents navigate identity, academic pressures, and mental health challenges in today’s world? Our research highlights the roles of peers, schools, and online environments in shaping students’ academic motivation, identity development, and well-being, with an emphasis on ethnically diverse populations.

Featured Studies:
TIES Study · ASPIRE Study · ASSIST Study

Key Topics:

  • Ethnic-racial identity development

  • Social support and academic engagement

  • Mental health in educational transitions

  • Digital sociopolitical messaging

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