Juliana E. French, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Psychology
The Evolution & Relationships at Oklahoma State (EROS*) Lab
*In ancient Greek mythology, Eros is the god of love
Romantic relationships are among some of the most impactful social relationships we have during our lifetimes. The EROS lab aims to advance theory and generate novel insights into three broad relationship problems that people face when seeking or in a relationship:
To this end, we utilize an interdisciplinary approach that integrates theories and knowledge from classic relationship science (e.g., attachment theory, interdependence theory), social psychology, and functional perspectives to examine psychological and biobehavioral mechanisms underlying attraction, relationship behaviors, long-term satisfaction, relationship dissolution, and intrasexual competition. Additionally, we are interested in examining how novel features of modern society (e.g., hormonal contraceptives, technology, media) alter or interfere psychological mechanisms central to relationship functioning.
How do people choose relationship partners?
How do people maintain
satisfying, long-term relationships?
How do people navigate relationship threats such as romantic rivals?
GRADUATE STUDENTS
Vidhi Bansal (she/they) is a first-year graduate student and lead project manager for the OKState Newlywed Project. Vidhi's research interests center on examining the intersectionality between attraction and romantic relationships, specifically looking at the role of perceived attractiveness in mate acquisition and retention. Additionally, they are interested in examining evolutionary mismatches, such as how evolved psychological mechanisms involved in singlehood are mismatched to modern-day technology and media. In their free time, they enjoy watching tv, listening to music, or reading fiction books.
UNDERGRADUATE & POST-BAC PROJECT MANAGERS
Elijah Longaberger (all pronouns) is a post-bac research assistant interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in Social Psychology. Elijah would like to become a professor and research social bonds and relationships amongst diverse identities.
Elijah is a co-project manager for an ecological momentary assessment study we are running in the lab.
Emma Jackson (she/her) is a senior and is interested in applying to Clinical Psychology Ph.D. programs
Emma is a co-project manager for an ecological momentary assessment study we are running in the lab.
Madison Meredith (she/her) is a junior Psychology student with a minor in neuroscience. She is planning on applying to Neurobiology and/or Neurobehavioral Ph.D. programs in Fall 2023.
Madison is the project manager for a daily diary study examining Tinder use and other dating behaviors.
Getty Lindsey is a junior and is interested in getting a Ph.D. in Social Psychology. He wishes to become a professor one day and conduct research of his own in Evolutionary Psychology.
Getty is the project manager for campus-wide field study our lab is conducting.
Taylor Deatherage is a freshman studying Pre-Medical Psychology with plans to attend medical school in the future.
Taylor is co-managing the OKState Newlywed Project through the AURCA work-study program.
LAB PHOTOS
Spring 2023
Fall 2022
