My research has two focuses: (1) unconventional aspects of close relationships and (2) dynamics of prejudice and racial identity formation. Unconventional aspects of close relationships include the dynamics of love and hate in intimate relationships and alternative relationship styles or practices such as polyamory and open relationships on relationship satisfaction. Dynamics of prejudice and racial identity formation include how participants develop and negotiate their racial identity especially in relation to members who hold dual or multiple and conflicting group identities and how one's social environment impacts one's group membership.

I use both quantitative and qualitative methodology in answering these research questions. My methods range from self-report, informant report, interview methodology, and experimental technology like google glass. Through a social-personality framework, my aim is to provide a better understanding of the social and emotional factors that contribute to the stability and satisfaction of our interpersonal relationships.