My program of research broadly pertains to the study of health communication, persuasion, technology, and youth. My work often addresses the following two questions:

1. How can we use strategic messages and persuasive technology (such as mobile devices) to help individuals connect their everyday choices with their more abstract goals?

2. How can we improve the effectiveness of strategic messages by mitigating unintended effects?

I am currently leading a NIH Grant, titled: "E-cigarette Warning Labels: Tests of Messages to Reduce Recreational Use Among Adolescents."

Educational Background & Specialties
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Educational Background

  • Ph.D.: Communication, Cornell University, 2015
  • M.S.: Communication, Cornell University, 2013
  • M.A.: Culture and Communication, New York University, 2004
  • B.A. : Public Relations (Honors) and Political Science, Minor: Marketing, Syracuse University (Newhouse)
  • Certificate: Digital Media Marketing, New York University, 2010 -
  • Certificate: Advanced Event Management, New York University, 2004 -

Specialties

  • Health Communication
  • Persuasion, Technology and Youth
  • Construal Level Theory
  • Psychological Reactance Theory