Angela Zhong
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
In this research project, I examined whether greater physiological linkage (specifically, Interbeat Interval linkage) between caregivers and youth predicts higher empathic accuracy in caregivers during a conflict conversation. Building on prior research conducted with married adults, friends, and strangers, we extended these findings to parent-child interactions. Of particular interest were caregivers of youth at clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis, as empathy in these relationships could play a significant role in youth functioning and clinical outcomes. Since empathy is crucial to fostering healthy familial relationship and promoting individual well-being, we hope to contribute to a better understanding of the physical mechanisms underlying empathy and its potential implications for interventions aimed at improving parent-child relationships, especially in CHR populations.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
My initial interest in this research project stems from a desire to explore the fundamental and often automatic mechanisms underlying empathy and emotions. I was particularly drawn to the concept of physiological linkage, which theorizes that people empathize by mirroring others’ autonomic nervous system responses in their own bodies. This focus on physiological experiences offers a fresh perspective on empathy, moving beyond traditional self-reports and emphasizing the instinctive connections we share as humans. Moreover, being able to studying empathy in real-life dyadic interactions fascinates me, as it allows for direct observation of how individuals communicate and respond to one another in their natural environments, preserving rich details that provide more accurate insights compared to conventional research methods.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
I’ve had a strong passion for research that stems from a deep curiosity about the underlying reasons behind human behavior and various phenomena. I’ve always been eager to explore the “why” behind the “what” using scientific methodologies that provide a structured, evidence-based way to understand complex issues. Psychology research particularly captivates me because it not only describes and explains behaviors but also aims to predict and influence them, offering insights that can lead to life-changing real-world applications. The potential of research to bridge scientific inquiry with practical solutions that positively impact society is truly inspiring to me. Additionally, the supportive and collaborative atmosphere in our lab has made my summer research experience genuinely enjoyable, despite the inevitable challenges that research presents. Working alongside my fantastic lab members has enriched my learning and boosted my confidence in tackling obstacles. Their encouragement and support have really empowered me to grow as a researcher and has solidified my commitment to pursuing research in the future.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
My research experience has been quite a journey! My SURG research was my first fully independent project, which was both exciting and challenging. I learned to handle everything from crafting my research questions to analyzing and interpreting data, giving me a well-rounded understanding of the entire process. One of the key skills I developed was data management (compiling, organizing, and cleaning data), a crucial skill in research. I also gained a solid foundation in using R for data analysis, which boosts my confidence in coding and statistical analyses. A highlight of my summer research experience was creating and presenting my first academic poster at DevSci’s symposium. This helped me improve my ability to communicate complex findings clearly and engage with an academic audience, which was really rewarding. Of course, there were challenges along the way—like technical issues and data inconsistencies—that tested my problem-solving skills. But I learned to adapt and overcome these obstacles with the support of my peers and mentors, who provided invaluable feedback. Overall, this experience has been instrumental in my growth as a researcher, and I’m excited to keep building on what I’ve learned!
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
My best tip is to be proactive and seize every opportunity that comes your way. Don’t hold just because you’re a freshman or sophomore; there’s so much you can learn along the way, and research often introduces you to skills and knowledge that you won’t find in the classroom. Plus, try to find a research topic that genuinely excites you and aligns with your passions. This will help you stay motivated when challenges pop up (and trust me, they will!). So, enjoy the research journey and have fun:)
What is something that you could give a 10 min presentation on right off the cuff?
why you should stop using TikTok – it literally harms you brain in so many different ways! (I’ve actually told this to so many people around me but it wasn’t really that effective LOL)