FOCUS
Maya studies applied developmental science and is interested in embedding concepts of child social, emotional, and biobehavioral development within the greater context of nontraditional family systems. Her goal is to learn more about the emergence and impact of social interdependence within populations underrepresented in research. Maya is interested in using mixed methods to conduct research that considers nontraditional childcare, family, and community support practices and will answer questions about the unique assets and needs of LGBTQ, BIPOC, or low-income families. Learning more about the role differences in family systems and social interdependence play in child, family, and community health will promote the development of more equitable and accessible policies and practices to support and improve the welfare of children and families.
MORE ABOUT MAYA
Maya attributes her successes to the collective and nontraditional support she received from her large family and diverse community. Her intersectional identities ground her interests in informing policies and practices that move away from dominant models and instead value, seek to support, and adapt to individuals’ differing experiences.
