Infants and Children (0-12 years)

Our studies with infants and children are about how they learn and develop: How do infants learn to talk? How does language exposure shape children’s learning? How do children learn through interactions with adults? How do children and adults develop ideas about what is right and wrong? 

To study these questions, we invite families with infants or children to participate in studies on the Cornell campus, in local museums or schools, or online. A study usually lasts between 15 and 60 minutes. We try to make our studies fun and engaging for both children and parents. You and your child may play a game, listen to music, or watch an interaction among others. You may be asked to play with your child as you would at home, or keep them company while they play with one of our research assistants.

You will always remain in the same room as your child. If you or your child want to take a break, or stop the study, you can do so at any time. Siblings are always welcome. They can come play with one of our researchers during the study–and maybe we have a study for them too! 

Adolescents (13-17 years)

Our studies with adolescents address questions like: How does social and cultural change affect adolescents’ beliefs about puberty? How do adolescents make sense of the world around them? How do they balance their academic, social, and personal goals?

Adolescents who join our studies may be interviewed, fill out a survey, or engage with a peer or researcher. Participation can happen on the Cornell campus, in a school, at home, or online. Most studies take between 15 and 90 minutes and are scheduled at times convenient for the participant.

To participate, minors need consent from their parents or guardians. Minors, parents, or guardians can decline, pause, or end participation at any time. We provide information about the nature and purpose of the study beforehand, and we are happy to answer any questions along the way.

Adults

Our labs study people across the entire lifespan, including adults. Our adult studies investigate how humans think, feel, and act, and how those processes change over time. We address questions like: How do people reason about political issues? How do health-related choices vary by age and personality traits? Participants may be interviewed, respond to a survey, or engage in a conversation with others.

Our studies with adults take place on the Cornell campus or online. They usually last between 15 and 90 minutes and are scheduled at a time convenient for you.