Stephanie Gadow, CLA 2008
Emotional Experiences and Political Attitudes
Major
Political Science
Mentors
Christopher Federico – Psychology and Political Science
Graduate Students: Damla Ergun and Corrie Hunt – Psychology
Brief Bio
I am a CLA Honors student. In addition to the research and school work, I enjoy reading, listening to classical and contemporary Christian music, working on my computer, and spending time with my family and my dog, Shasty-boy.
Future Plans
Following my graduation, I plan on attending law school.
Why Research?
I have always had an extremely inquisitive mind and enjoy researching to discover answers to my seemingly limitless inquiries. As a political science major, I have always been fascinated with politics and its overarching effects on the general public through the utilization, directly or indirectly, of the media. Through this research project, I have been able to learn more than I ever expected in this area and presently have opportunities to further expand the initial scope of the research.
What Did I Get from Research?
This research experience has been one of countless blessings. I have discovered a tremendous amount of information regarding political psychology, child, adult, and political attachment theories communicated through complex scholarly articles, which have greatly benefited me intellectually. These topics, which are outside of my area of study, have greatly enhanced my reading and analytical abilities as well as my writing capabilities. My role as a research assistant has expanded during the 15 plus months I have been with Dr. Federico and his team of researchers. From a lowly, volunteer freshman entering data, to earning summer research credits (twice), to receiving 2 UROPs, in addition to a Political Science Departmental scholarship, to contributing to research ideas, and becoming an active participant for the newest facets of the project, my dedication to the project has been overwhelmingly rewarded. This project has sparked numerous ideas that I hope to explore more deeply in my honors summa thesis.
How Did I Start?
During my freshman year, my Psychology 1001 discussion leader, Damla Ergun, mentioned that her area of research was political psychology. As the course progressed I eventually asked her if she needed free help in her lab. She enthusiastically said yes, and thus my research work commenced. I became acquainted with Dr. Federico, when I learned that I could receive summer research credits for my work with the project during the summer. My relationship with Dr. Federico has grown such that he invited me this past spring semester to attend his graduate Political Psychology Lab. It was an extremely fascinating experience, as I was able to hear and learn about other related political psychology projects. Dr. Federico and his team have been fantastic to work for and wonderful people to learn from.
Initially, the research began as a volunteer opportunity. As the research continued, I have been able to earn academic credit for 2 summers and a semester, as well as receive 2 UROPs for my work as well as a Political Science Departmental Scholarship.
Advice for Another Student
Research is a really cool way to learn about a subject outside of the traditional classroom environment. The University has countless opportunities for students to assist a professor in their particular research areas, as well as the creation and pursuit of your own research ideas. In this setting, you are in a position to interact with a professor, as well as their graduate students in some cases. What many students don’t realize is that the professors and graduate students are ordinary people like themselves. The research experience tends to bring out the best in the professors and graduate students, benefiting everyone, while at the same time making discoveries that could potentially change our communities.
Project Description
I am currently involved in research with the Center for Political Psychology. This project investigates the effects of emotions on an individual’s November election vote, including the effects of the media on an individual's perception of a particular candidate or issue. The newest facet of the research investigates the connections between the child and adult psychology attachment theories and the political realm. Child and adult attachment theories state that an individual’s relationship with others is determined by their early interactions with their primary caregiver. The new facet will determine the effects of positive and negative attachment types on individual’s perceptions of the political figures and events.