CDL

Welcome to the Cognitive Development Lab (CDL)

At the CDL, our research team, guided by Dr. Simone Nguyen, explores how individuals develop the ability to mentally represent their inner and outer worlds through concepts and categories. We examine a range of topics including conceptual knowledge, categorization, inductive reasoning, and the relationship between cognition and well-being. We study children and adults as a developmental comparison, using a mix of experimental and naturalistic methods to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. Our aim is to advance understanding of cognitive processes and their role in promoting well-being. Thank you for visiting our site. We appreciate your interest in our research!

A Sampling of Our Current Studies

Food Gratitude and Conceptualization

Food is a central aspect of children’s lives and occupies a large portion of their thoughts. Yet research on children's gratitude for food (e.g., appreciation for the origins of food and food sustainability) is limited. This project examines the development of food gratitude in children, focusing on parent-child interactions, mindful feeding behaviors, and reducing food waste. We also explore children’s exposure to food gratitude through online book read-alouds. Our findings aim to enhance how families foster food gratitude.

Future-Oriented Thinking

This project examines how children’s thinking about the future may motivate current behaviors and promote positive emotions. We aim to understand how imagining a best possible future influences motivation and emotional well-being. We also compare these effects in children, adults, and adolescents, given the success of similar interventions in older age groups. Ultimately, this research will explore methods to promote positivity and motivation in children through future-oriented thinking.

Categorization and Person Perception

Category labels can profoundly shape how we perceive others. We are currently exploring how category labels like "healthy" and "unhealthy" influence how both children and adults view what is possible for others in the future. Specifically, we examine how exposure to these labels might affect how people predict others' future outcomes. As chronic health conditions become more prevalent, understanding this impact is crucial. Our findings may inform communication strategies that support individuals in achieving their long-term goals.

Cross-Classification

There are potentially many ways that people can be classified and cross-classified, including career domains. This project investigates the role of language in how children and adults envision themselves and other people pursuing multiple career domains (e.g., science and arts). We seek to understand the effects of language - how we describe careers - on perceptions of category inclusivity and exclusivity (e.g., who is seen as capable in different careers). Our findings may offer insights into how language can encourage exploration and enhance a sense of belonging.

Interested in Contributing to these Studies and More?

Discover how you can join our research efforts by visiting our Get Involved page.

Google Sites

Report abuse