Research

The broad research focus of our laboratory is to better understand the genetic and neural substrates of individual differences in temperament--or biologically based differences in thinking, feeling, and acting. We are specifically interested in inhibited temperament which is characterized by wariness or avoidance of novelty, such as new people or places.  Because inhibited temperament is an established risk factor for the development of anxiety and depressive disorders, identifying the genetic and neural substrates of  inhibited temperament may also elucidate mechanisms of increased risk for these disorders.

 

We use neuroimaging methods such as structural magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), functional MRI, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)  to identify the neural substrates of temperament, with an emphasis on the amygdala and the prefrontal cortex. We also use genetic methods to explore the role of genes related to neurotransmitter function and stress response on brain function, temperament, and anxiety. We hope that by identifying the  genetic and neural substrates of inhibited temperament, we can develop improved identification and prevention for anxiety disorders in young children.

 

Thank you to the agencies that have generously supported our research: