Research Overview

Our research is catalyzed by key questions about adaptation to injury. Our efforts have historically focused on resilience and, more recently, injustice appraisals. We also investigate the role of assistive technology (AT) in functional and psychosocial outcomes. We are committed to the dissemination and implementation (D&I) of our findings to ensure they reach the community.

Resilience & Injustice Appraisals 

We investigate both protective factors, like resilience, and risk factors, like injustice appraisals. Our pioneering work in this area helps us identify individuals at higher risk for poor outcomes (such as chronic pain and anger) and informs the development of targeted therapies.

Intervention Development 

A central goal of our lab is to translate foundational research into practical, evidence-based tools that improve well-being. We follow a systematic process to develop and test new psychosocial interventions, such as interventions to build self-efficacy and resilience and biofeedback techniques.  For example, based on our findings, we are currently designing an intervention aimed at reducing the negative impact of injustice appraisals and building skills to cope with the stresses of chronic spinal cord injury.

Dissemination & Implementation (D&I) We are committed to bridging the gap between research and practice. It isn't enough to simply publish findings; we work to ensure they reach the community. A key focus is the Dissemination & Communication of the Spinal Cord Injury Physical Activity Guidelines. We are developing strategies and user-friendly resources to deliver these guidelines to people with SCI, clinicians, and community fitness professionals, empowering individuals to improve their health through physical activity.