My Research

  • Assessment of cognitive functions, Academic achievement, Specific Learning disorders, Substance dependence, Service-Learning, Peace Studies

Interests

  • Academic underachievement
  • Research methods
  • Psychological test development
  • Assessment of cognitive functions
  • Substance dependence
  • Service-Learning
  • Peace Studies

Research Projects

  • Identification of risk factors and psychological correlates of substance abuse: A Service-learning initiative

    The one-year Bamboo project, funded by the United Board for Christian Higher Education in Asia in 2017 aimed to provide an experiential learning opportunity for the students of Psychology. The study was intended to help students gain understanding regarding the social relevance of the concept.Students were expected to gain knowledge regarding the need to curb the abuse of substances and chart intervention strategies suitable for the prevention of the unruly use of the same. They got the opportunity to visit de-addiction units of hospitals and clinics wherein they met patients under medical and psychological treatment. Being part of Alcoholic Anonymous meetings, they could directly interact with patients under treatment and those under recovery.Consultation with psychiatrists, psychologists and social workers enabled to have a better understanding regarding the biological, psychological and social perspective of substance abuse. The students could gain practical information regarding the role of family, peer and social influences on the initiation and maintenance of drug use.The activity was found beneficial by the students who got involved in the same. Assessment of Psychology students' understanding about the concept of substance abuse after the exposure they received through service learning was carried out. They were found to have increased awareness about the role of various psychosocial factors in substance abuse after the exposure.

 Ph.D Research:

Psychosocial correlates of Scholastic backwardness: A study among low achievers, underachievers and learning disabled.

The research was undertaken in the context that very few studies in the past have tried to identify the characteristic profile (if any) of different groups of academically backward children, viz., low achievers, underachievers, learning disabled etc.  A detailed analysis of the variables contributing to scholastic backwardness was identified as an essential means through which effective strategies can be introduced to put those students back on track.

The research helped to understand that the determinants of academic achievement for the LD, underachiever, normal achiever, and higher achiever groups are different.  The study helped in identifying some predictors of academic performance that are unique for the groups. The groups of scholastically backward children therefore require different modes of intervention, which focus on their specific deficits.  Individualized training was identified to be provided to children to strengthen their skills and reduce their weaknesses.