Our research aims to understand the socio-psychological processes of interpersonal relationships and human interactions. Using different research methodologies (e.g., experiments, surveys, behavioral assessment), we examine participants from both Western and Eastern populations. Within this broad topic, our studies focused on addressing three intersecting areas:
Ostracism
and Social Exclusion
RESEARCH AREA I
The need to belong and maintain harmonious social relationships is a fundamental human motivation. However, ostracism and social exclusion, which thwart people’s sense of belonging, are ubiquitous across cultures and throughout the human lifespan. Our research aims to understand the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral impacts of ostracism. Moreover, we have taken the initiative to identify protective factors and devise informed interventions aimed at helping people cope with ostracism. Please feel free to read through our publications if you would like to learn more about our research in this area.
RESEARCH AREA II
Objectification
The second area of our research focuses on objectification. Humans have the desire to master their destiny and actualize their potential. However, objectification, defined as being treated as an object that can be manipulated to achieve a goal, thwarts this important need. For example, women often experience sexual objectification in daily life. Our research aims to understand the psychological and behavioral consequences of sexual objectification and self-objectification. Moreover, people often experience nonsexual objectification in performance-related settings. Therefore, our research also explores this form of objectification. Additionally, we hope to examine the protective factors that may buffer the negative influences of objectification in our research. Please feel free to read through our publications if you would like to learn more about our research in this area.
RESEARCH AREA III
Aggressive
and Antisocial Behavior
The third area of our research focuses on aggressive and antisocial behaviors. These ruinous actions may lead to tremendous individual and societal costs. Therefore, our team investigates the interpersonal antecedents, the corresponding psychological mechanisms, and the consequences of these negative behaviors. Moreover, we also examine factors that may mitigate people’s aggressive and antisocial tendencies. Please feel free to read through our publications if you would like to learn more about our research in this area.