Summary
- Major: Psychology
- Faculty Mentor: Dr. David Bridget
- Research Topic: Beyond Parenting: The Role of Executive Function in Child Emotion Regulation and Sleep
- New Scholar: 2025 Cohort
- Graduating with a Baccalaureate Degree: Spring 2027
Abstract
Sleep problems greatly affect children’s emotion regulation, behavior, and long-term development. Although research connects sleep problems to emotional-behavioral difficulties, the mediating roles of parental executive functioning (EF) and parenting behaviors remain understudied. This study will explore how mothers’ EF and parenting behaviors shape children’s sleep patterns and emotional development. Using cognitive tasks and parent-reported measures, this study aims to provide insights into family dynamics and sleep interventions, inform policies, and shape support programs. The findings may help break cycles of dysfunctional family dynamics, properly adjusting children’s sleep habits, and thereby benefiting families, society and future generations.