My research investigates individual and social predictors of mental distress and psychological well-being in college students. I examine how social identities (e.g., race, class, gender, first-generation college student status) shape psychological outcomes like depression, anxiety, stress, psychological well-being, and/or pro-environmental behavior, both pre-COVID19 and during COVID-19. Some of my international research addresses PTSD in relation to war and natural disaster in women and children in Sri Lanka. I also study ethnopolitical conflict and prejudice in both Sri Lanka and the United States. My pedagogical research examines the effectiveness of course assignments and other aspects of teaching and learning.
Worcester State University, School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Worcester State University
Worcester State College
Introduction to history of psychology, scientific method, brain/nervous system, development, learning, motivation, sensation/perception, personality, psychopathology, psychotherapy, cognitive processes, social behavior.
Fall and Spring and every year. 3 Credits
LASC Categories: HBS
Prerequisites: PS-101. Psychology majors must pass with a C- or above.
Etiology, dynamics and treatment of psychopathology and their relation to normal personality are considered from traditional and contemporary perspectives.
Prerequisites: PS-101, and PS-275 or PS-276. Psychology majors must pass with a C- or above.
Lab and/or field based research on a specific research topic under the supervision of a faculty member. May include assisting faculty with ongoing research. Written report required.
Permission of Instructor. 1-3 Credits
Prerequisites: PS-101 with a grade of C- or above.
A survey of major theories of personality. Why people behave as they do is explored through the different theories.
Other or on demand and every year. 3 Credits
Prerequisites: PS-101 PS-275 and PS-307. Take PS-205 or PS-276.
Advanced lab and/or field based research on a specific research topic under the supervision of a faculty member. Written report required.
Prerequisites: PS-275 and PS-276 and PS-307 with a C- or above.
As part of the Psychology Department Honors program, students design and carry out advanced, independent lab and/or field based research on a specific research topic under the supervision of a faculty member. Written report required.
Permission of Instructor. 3 Credits
LASC Categories: CAP
Prerequisites: Completed Mental Health Concentration Required PS-330 and PS-335 and PS-340 and PS-435 Take PS-400 or PS-318 or PS-315 with a C- or above.
A capstone course dealing with recent and emerging topics, issues, and methods in mental health.
Spring only and every year. 3 Credits
