Research

 

My research focuses on examining adaptive processes in romantic relationships.  I am interested in investigating characteristics of successful romantic relationships, how our relationships make us better people, and what people do to make their relationships stronger and more satisfying.  My research interests lie primarily within two areas.  I am interested in examining how stress impacts couples in romantic relationships, including investigating how the relationship can serve to protect individuals from psychological problems and the characteristics that contribute to resilience in relationships.  I also conduct research investigating the predictions and applications of the self-expansion model of relationships, a model that describes how engaging in growth-promoting activities contributes to the development of relationships.

 

I also conduct some research in the area of statistics and quantitative methods.  My work in this area focuses largely in  promoting “best practices” in quantitative methods.  Specifically, my work has recently focused on the use (and misuse) of reliability coefficients in psychological research.  I have a particular interest in examining the equivalence of measures across diverse populations through the use of meta-analytic techniques.  Given my substantive focus on relationships, I am also very interested in methods of modeling non-independence in data using hierarchical linear modeling and structural equation modeling.

 

Current Research Participation Opportunities

 

If you are interested in participating in a research project conducted by Dr. Graham, please see the following active research projects:

 

1) Shared Activities and Romantic Relationships Online Survey:  This study is open to individuals and couples — it is not necessary that your partner participate in this study with you.  To be eligible to participate in this study, you must currently be in a committed romantic relationship.  Participation requires completing an on-line survey taking 10 to 20 minutes. Participants will be provided with further details on the theory underlying the study following completion of the survey.  More information about the study (and a link to the survey itself) can be found here.

2) Problem Solving in Marriage:  This study is open to couples only — both members of the couple must participate in this study.  To be eligible to participate in this study, you must currently be married.  Participation requires attending a 1-hour appointment on the Western Washington University campus.  During this meeting, you will complete a variety of surveys, engage in videotaped conversations with your partner, and complete a puzzle-like game.  Participating couples will be paid $20 for their time, and on-site child care may be available during the study.   More information about the study can be found here.

3) Momentary Experiences in Relationships:  This study is open to couples only — both members of the couple must participate in this study.  To be eligible to participate in this study, you must currently be in a committed romantic relationship of at least 6 months in duration, and must currently be living with your romantic partner.  Participation requires attending a 1-hour appointment on the Western Washington University campus.  During this meeting, you will complete a variety of surveys.  You will then be asked to carry a palm-held computer for 1 week. This computer will signal you to complete further brief surveys over the course of the week while you go about your usual business.   Participating couples will receive personalized feedback about the data they provide.   More information about the study can be found here.

 

Current Research Assistant Opportunities

 

If you are a student interested in working on research with Dr. Graham, please see the student page.