Emily Rolan

I am guided by dynamic theories of development, including environmental and individual characteristics. For example, the relational-developmental-systems (RDS) theory suggests that individual characteristics (e.g., genetics and cognitive abilities) and environments (e.g., prenatal and sibling relationships) do not occur separately, but are interwoven in a bidirectional and dynamic process manipulating development. Secondly, I am drawn to the importance of sensitive developmental periods of great change, particularly the prenatal period and adolescence. Thirdly, my research is grounded in how transactional and bidirectional influences shape development across sensitive periods. My specific interests highlight the development of cognitive traits, sibling relationships, and deliquency.