Undergraduate Research & Scholarships

Lauren Cohen

Examining Transdiagnostic Effects of Extremes in Approach Motivation and Cognitive Control

Much attention has been focused on dysfunction associated with high or low approach motivation, or with deficits in effortful control. Recent evidence suggests, however, that it is important to consider these two dimensions jointly. This project examines the transdiagnostic effects of extremes in approach motivation and cognitive control across self-report, behavioral, and fMRI measurements. This summer, I will continue to assist my mentor in behavioral data collection, recruitment, participant management, and assisting with fMRI data collection.

Message To Sponsor

Thank you so much for providing me with this opportunity. I have worked with Professor Johnson’s lab for three semesters, primarily in recruitment and phone screens, and the summer research stipend will afford me time to be trained to run sessions with participants! I am over the moon to become more involved with the data collection process, and my aspiration to pursue a career in medicine has driven a keen interest in working with clinical populations within our study. This opportunity is also allowing me to better develop my theoretical research skills and interests, as I will have the chance to meet with Professor Johnson and discuss different papers centered around my interests, like the neurobiology of stress.