Annalise is a scholar in the field of Social and Clinical Psychology. She is currently completing an M.A. degree in Social Sciences with a Psychology concentration at the University of Chicago.

I am broadly interested in how we come to understand emotion, and more particularly the various disorders that interrupt this pathway.

Throughout my academic career, I have woven together clinical diagnosis, personality dynamics, and the intricate landscape of mood disorders. My intellectual pursuits extend to unpacking biases in assessment, as I seek to unravel the subtle influences that shape diagnostic frameworks. Borderline symptomatology, a realm where emotions and personality converge, holds my attention currently. Here, I aim to contribute to a more profound understanding of the underlying mechanisms that define and shape borderline personality disorder. As I navigate this diverse landscape of research, my overarching goal is to add insight on the pathway toward more accurate clinical diagnoses and interventions, whilst leveraging the insights gained from the study of personality, empathy, and emotion regulation. This dynamic journey in the field of clinical psychology propels me toward the broader discourse on mental health and connections between research and practical applications for the betterment of individuals and communities alike.

Clinical Diagnosis

Personality

Mood Disorders

Emotion regulation

Keywords

Assessment Biases

Borderline Symptomatology

Psychopathology

Empathy

Current Research

On Psychopathy and Borderline Personality Disorder in Women

I currently work under the mentorship of Dr. Jean Decety at the Social Cognitive Neuroscience (SCN) Lab within the University of Chicago. Focused on reshaping the classification of psychopathy, I strive to further our unique understanding of psychopathy in women. My research has culminated in a comprehensive thesis titled: 'Locating the Crossroads of Psychopathy, Borderline Personality Disorder, and Emotion as it Applies to Incarcerated Women.' Here, I delve into the intricacies of emotional understanding, weaving together the classifications of psychopathy and the complexities of borderline personality disorder, within the unique context of incarcerated women. My hope is to not only contribute to the academic discourse, but also to foster a more compassionate and informed approach to understanding the psychological landscape of those within the criminal justice system. Inspired by Dr. Decety's guidance, I am committed to both unraveling the intricate complexities of these psychological phenomena as well as addressing the inherent gender biases associated with their diagnosis. I aspire to contribute meaningfully to our evolving picture of the human mind and foster a more inclusive and equitable approach to psychological research.

Past Research

On Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, and Psychosis

On High-Need, Low-Resource Populations in Hawai‘i

As an undergraduate at the University of Hawai‘i, I had the privilege of working on two unique projects. Under Dr. David Cicero, my research endeavors were centered around early onset schizophrenia, as well as the broader spectrum of disorders related to psychosis. Motivated by a deep curiosity about the intersections of mental health and societal outcomes, I dedicated myself to a comprehensive exploration. This journey led to the creation of a detailed literature review titled: 'An Illuminative Exploration of Criminality and Violence in Bipolar Disorder.' This work not only expanded my understanding of mental health complexities, but also inspired a commitment to contributing valuable insights to the interdisciplinary discourse surrounding mental health and its societal implications.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Susana Helm at the John A. Burns School of Medicine, I engaged in an independent project titled: 'Evidence of Elevated Substance Use in High-Need, Low-Resource Populations: A Review of the Publicly Available Literature.' This endeavor was particularly meaningful for me as it grappled directly with populations in my hometown. The project inspired me to pursue topics that resonate with the needs of my community, cultivating a passion for research that holds the potential for direct and purposeful impact on the well-being of those around me.

From the exhilarating Eureka! moments to the inevitable frustrations that follow, this has been a deeply rewarding journey for me. As both a student and a mentee, I've found immense gratification in the collaborative process of learning and discovery. My academic path has been a diverse one. I graduated with an M.A. in Creating Writing from the University of Kent in England in 2020, and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Hawai‘i in 2019. This multidisciplinary background has not only honed my analytical and creative skills but has also equipped me to bridge the gap between academic rigor and practical application. My studies have taken me across the globe — from London and Paris to Hong Kong. In each city, I've found myself immersed in classrooms, soaking in the wealth of knowledge offered to me. My decisions to move abroad alone built hurdles in front of me every day; these experiences have taught me to trust myself and be intentional about my future. Every turn I have faced on this path has presented me a unique challenge, all of which I believe have instilled in me the drive, focus, and empathy necessary to succeed in a research-driven career field.

Particularly drawn to the field of clinical psychology, I am captivated by its blend of academic rigor and practical benefits. The opportunity to contribute to the understanding and improvement of mental health, coupled with the chance to directly impact individuals' well-being, fuels my dedication to this field. Throughout my academic pursuits, I have been fortunate to receive numerous awards, a testament to my commitment to excellence in scholarship. One of the most admirable traits of the field of psychology is this very willingness to improve upon itself. To be wrong sometimes, but to always be wrong better. As I continue on this academic journey, I am eager to contribute meaningfully to the evolving landscape of the field in which I have been encapsulated for years.