Research Interests
I research interpersonal and health communication and am especially interested in the way sociocultural group membership (e.g., religion) and stigmatized illnesses (e.g., chronic genital pain, addiction) shape relational communication. I primarily use qualitative research methods from an interpretive perspective. Ultimately, I wish to help romantic couples flourish holistically (emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually) in a way that aligns with their shared values.
Publications
Teaching God’s design: Exploring the rhetorical and relational goals of evangelical leaders during premarital education about sex.
“Some days are much holier than others”: Relational uncertainty and partner influence in Christian dating couples’ sexual intimacy negotiation.
Religion and spirituality in communication research: Moving toward a sociocultural identity framework.