My research focuses on identity formation and negotiation as it intersects with uncertainty management practices that arise in nontraditional or challenging family systems. More specifically, my research explicates identity uncertainty as an experience applicable to circumstances such as infertility or adoption and explores the communication processes that can shape or reflect these experiences. In particular, my dissertation research examined the associations between identity uncertainty and information management strategies for adult adopted individuals who are uncertain about their genetic family health history.

General areas of study include interpersonal communication, family communication, health communication, identity, uncertainty, and information management.