Lucy S. King, Ph.D.
Research Projects
Development in the context of
psychosocial neglect and enrichment:
The roles of parent and child genetics
In my postdoctoral research, I am testing a multi-dimensional model of the influence of enriching caregiving in early life on socioemotional and cognitive development. Leveraging data from the Bucharest Early Intervention Project and the Texas Twins Project, my research will address the role of genetics in models of the impact of the caregiving environment on child development. In contrast to a biodeterministic perspective, this research seeks to highlight the importance of the environment both above and beyond and in interaction with genetics on children's development.
Role: Project design, management, grant writing, data analysis, dissemination. Funding: NICHD (PI Lucy King)
Brain and Behavior Infant Experiences (BABIES)
The goal of this project is to better understand how the perinatal environment, including the hormonal milieu in utero and postnatal interactions with caregivers, influences neurodevelopment in infancy. Findings from this study advance scientific knowledge concerning the impact of early experiences on risk for mental health difficulties.
Role: Project design, management, grant writing, data analysis, dissemination. Funding: NIMH and NICHD (PI Ian Gotlib).
Prenatal Predictors of Preschool Temperament
A collaboration between the departments of Psychology and Pediatrics at Stanford University, the goal of this project is to investigate the contribution of prenatal markers of inflammation to temperament and neurocognitive function in early childhood. Findings from this study increase understanding of the etiology of difficulties in socioemotional and cognitive functioning.
Role: Project design, management, grant writing, data analysis, dissemination. Funding: March of Dimes Prematurity Research Center (PIs Gary Shaw, David Stevensen); Stanford Maternal & Child Health Research Institute (PI Ian Gotlib); American Psychological Foundation (PI Lucy King).