Research Interests

I study the the role of narrative in self and emotion regulation from childhood through late life. I'm especially interested in issues of how children and adults integrate experiences within their sense of self via narrating, and how listeners (parents, friends, and romantic partners) can help to shape stories towards more adaptive emotional and self-related outcomes. In my recent work, I have been pursuing these issues within the specific context of interpersonal conflict and harm, and have begun to include psychophysiological methods as a complement to narrative, observational, and experimental work. Much of this work is done in collaboration with Cecilia Wainryb, here at the University of Utah; I also have long-standing collaborations with Kate McLean, at Western Washington University.

Opportunities For Students

We are currently seeking volunteer research assistants to help with all of our projects. For credit only, 2-3 credits, 6-9 hours per week. Students interested in ultimately doing a senior thesis are especially encouraged to apply. Email Professor Monisha Pasupathi (monisha.pasupathi@psych.utah.edu) with: GPA in psychology, past coursework, research and career interests long-term. You'll get a response from the faculty member (Wainryb or Pasupathi) or graduate student whose projects have the best fit with your interests.

Education

Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Center for Lifespan Psychology (1997-1999)
Ph.D., Stanford University (Psychology, 1997)
B.A., Case Western Reserve University (Psychology and English, 1991)

My Current Graduate Students

Jake Billitteri
Kris Oldroyd

Former Ph.D. Students

Atara Macnamara
Cade Mansfield
Trisha L. Weeks