Research

The Minority Stress & Trauma (MST) lab research focuses on understanding biopsychosocial determinants (e.g., trauma exposure, stigma-related stressors, physiological stress reactivity) of co-occurring mental health, chronic pain, and substance use disorders in minoritized populations. The MST lab also examines multilevel factors influencing help-seeking and linkage-to-care and develops scalable in-person, telehealth, and digital interventions targeting stress-sensitive mental and behavioral health conditions and chronic pain (e.g., chronic pelvic pain and other nociplastic pain conditions).

The MST lab employs diverse and rigorous methodologies, including randomized controlled trials, laboratory experiments, traditional and intensive longitudinal methods, observational studies, qualitative research, and community-based participatory approaches. Data collection methods utilized in the MST lab encompass self-report assessments, focus groups and interviews, computational text analysis, wearable activity sensors (Fitbits), behavioral observation coding, and clinician-administered tools. The lab also uses objective stress reactivity measures (e.g., salivary cortisol, heart rate, skin conductance) to assess responses to trauma cues and stigma-related stressors.

Through this work, the MST Lab seeks to advance scientific knowledge, improve health equity, and inform policy and clinical practice tailored to the unique needs of underserved and minoritized communities with lived experience of trauma.