Faculty Member
I am an Assistant Professor of Social Psychology at Utah Valley University. I earned my Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Michigan. My research program investigates how youth (adolescents and emerging adults) learn about gender and sexuality, with a specific focus on understanding potential positive pathways to healthy sexual development. I am particularly interested in how media messages interact with family influences to shape young people’s beliefs about gender roles and gendered sexual stereotypes. Through identifying both harmful and beneficial sexual socialization experiences, my work aims to inform interventions to improve the experiences of young people. I utilize both qualitative and quantitative approaches to investigate these processes.
This academic year (2026-2027), I am teaching Psychology of Gender and Adolescent Development.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my nieces and nephews, catching up on all the latest reality television, and walking my two dogs. I grew up in Salt Lake City and went to the University of Utah for undergrad, so I am excited to be back in Utah! I am new to the Orem area and excited to explore!
My inbox is always open, so please reach out with any questions!
Email: [email protected]
