Jessica Lang

Professor Lang leverages a variety of methods to assess dyadic interactions as they occur, including self-report, partner-report, observational behavioral coding, and physiological responses. She draws from theories that center stress and affective processes in close relationships, and evaluates how these factors shape—and are shaped—by behaviors in dyadic interactions. Through her lab, she is committed to mentoring students and giving them the hands-on experience that will distinguish them in their pursuit of graduate school or careers. Her tiered approach to mentoring meets students where they are—at all stages of experience—from first entering the lab through advanced research activity.

I wish to create a culture of community in my classes, bringing together students to learn from each other as they learn from me. My aim is for my students and mentees to become curious learners, excellent researchers/psychologists, and future leaders in our community and beyond. I continuously seek new opportunities to learn deeply about inclusive teaching, impactful positive practices, and ways to enhance the holistic classroom environment for all my students. I take great care to understand how my class elements impact my students and how well the assessments I use contribute to fair and equitable treatment. Through the resources that I have gathered over my years and the opportunities that I seek out, I have grown and will continue to grow in my cultural awareness, my sensitivity to the needs of students from diverse backgrounds, and my ability to create meaningful experiences in the classroom and beyond.