Behavioral Research

Behavioral science is intertwined throughout research labs and programs in the Center for Cancer and Immunology Research (CCIR). Investigators direct independent, NIH-funded behavioral science research programs while also collaborating with physician scientist colleagues to support the integration of patient-reported outcomes in clinical research. CCIR behavioral research faculty members also participate in and maintain leadership roles in local and national community advocacy groups, national professional organizations and multi-institution cooperative research groups.

Allergy

Behavioral research in allergic diseases is focused on the identification of medical and psychosocial factors related to adjustment to food allergy and the development of clinical interventions that support patients’ food allergy management.

Current Projects

• A longitudinal assessment of coping and adjustment among pre-adolescents with food allergy
• An evaluation of a parent mentor program for parents of young children newly diagnosed with food allergy
• An investigation of the impact of allergic reactions on mothers’ decisions about breastfeeding and infant feeding

Our Team

• Linda Herbert, Ph.D.
• Ashley Ramos, Ph.D.

Bone Marrow Transplantation

Behavioral research in bone marrow transplantation is focused on evaluating effects of transplant on quality of life and neurocognitive functioning to better understand psychosocial implications of transplant and support future development of novel approaches to mitigate such sequelae.

Our Team

• Steven Hardy, Ph.D.
  
• Dana Footer, Psy.D.
  

Cancer

Behavioral research in pediatric oncology is focused on models of screening for mental and behavioral health concerns in survivors of childhood cancer, neurocognitive outcomes following treatment and implementation of the standards for the psychosocial care of children with cancer and their families.

Our Team

• Steven Hardy, Ph.D.
• Megan Connolly, Ph.D.
• Dana Footer, Psy.D.
• Stephanie Merwin, Ph.D. 

Sickle Cell Disease

Behavioral research in pediatric sickle cell disease is focused on neurocognitive functioning, disease self-management and non-pharmacological approaches to managing pain. Current and recent projects include:

• Studies of cognitive rehabilitation interventions for children with sickle cell disease experiencing difficulties with attention and working memory
• Trajectories of neurocognitive functioning among youth with sickle cell disease without stroke
• Cognitive and behavioral factors associated with self-efficacy in relation to managing sickle cell disease
• Integrative therapies for managing acute and chronic pain

Our Team

• Steven Hardy, Ph.D.
• Megan Connolly, Ph.D.