Research

Violent extremism poses a serious threat to modern society. One line of my research examines the social context and motivations behind violent extremism, with recent projects focusing on the role that social need deprivation can play in the radicalization process (e.g., after experiencing social isolation, loneliness, and ostracism). I have also conducted a meta-analysis exploring the influence of basic psychological needs on extremism.

People are more isolated now then ever before. So, in another line of my research I investigate consequences of social exclusion. Ostracism is the painful social experience of being ignored and excluded and threatens people's basic psychological needs. As a result, they will go to extreme means to restore their needs. I have studied a range of resulting outcomes, from self-administering electric shocks to gun ownership.

Similarly, social isolation occurs when someone has a nonexistent social network or no contact with other people. Similar to exclusion, isolation has negative consequences on someone's physical and mental health. I have studied negative outcomes of isolation, including feeling lonely and extremism.

Social technologies are being a universal means of communication. However, they often replace in-person interactions, which usually have better interpersonal and well-being outcomes. I have a line of research examining the impact of choosing screen time over face-to-face interactions. I have also conducted work on the impact of digital communication on relationships.

I also study trends related to the rise of social technologies. For example, ghosting is a unique form of ostracism that occurs when one partner cuts off all communication with another partner without an explanation and is heavily influenced by digital communication. I have studied the effect of being ghosted in multiple contexts—close relationships and the workplace—and also individual differences in the experience of being both the source and target of ghosting.