Our Research

Our research lab investigates the dynamic interplay between interpersonal relationships and health. We explore how the quality of close social connections and communication influences our psychological and physical well-being. We examine a range of factors including emotional support, relationship satisfaction, and stress regulation within interpersonal relationships. Our goal is to uncover mechanisms that promote resilience, connection, and health across the lifespan.

Current Research

AI and Romantic Communication

We are currently collecting and analyzing data regarding the impact AI-assisted communication has on romantic relationships. For instance, we are particularly interested in how the partner on the receiving end of an AI-assisted message views their partner's use of this technology.

Technology and Couples Communication

Technology has changed the way that romantic partners interact with one another. We have just started a series of studies on how technology assisted communication can impact couples relationships in both helpful and possibly negative ways.

Dyadic Coping and Long COVID

We are examining the the ways in which couples cope together amidst Long COVID. We aim to better understand how shared coping efforts influence relationship functioning and overall well-being during ongoing health stressors.

Published Research

Attributions and Relationship Satisfaction in an Arab American Population

This study explored how romantic partners in Arab American communities interpret each other’s behavior and how those interpretations impact relationship satisfaction. Results highlight the role of cultural context in shaping relational thinking.

Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2313-5778/8/3/87

COVID-19 Stress and Its Impact on Self Protective Behaviors in an Emerging Adult College Sample: The Importance of Trauma

Social relationships are critical in the lives of emerging adults; however, little research has been focused on the types of protective behaviors that individuals on college campuses engaged in during the pandemic. This study examines predictors of emerging adults’ self-protective behaviors with a focus on COVID stress.

Link: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19325037.2023.2277933

Coupling with COVID: The Role of Dyadic Coping in Relationship Satisfaction and Psychological Distress during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Models of dyadic coping suggest that facing a stressful situation, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, with one’s partner to meet their needs is associated with positive outcomes. This study explored dyadic coping and its association with relationship satisfaction and distress in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Link: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0192513X211030028

Recent Highlights

ABCT 2024

Brianna recently presented our ongoing project regarding AI and romantic communication at the 2024 ABCT Conference in Philadelphia.

Sure 2024

Aamina was chosen to be a part of the university's SURE (https://umdearborn.edu/summer-undergraduate-research-experience-sure-program) in the summer of 2024. During this time she was able to get funding to support research on the impact of AI and couples' communication.

AMENA 2023

Aamina presented a project regarding attributions in Arab American couples at the 2023 AMENA Conference in Ann Arbor.

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