Erica Mitchell, Ph.D.
Research Assistant Professor
I earned my Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies, with a specialization in Couple and Family Therapy, from Michigan State University in 2019. My program of research focuses on disseminating brief and accessible evidence-based interventions for couples, with a particular focus on couples who may be at higher risk for relationship dissolution and couples with limited access to services. I have also conducted research on infidelity and understanding how couples are able to heal from this.
Email: emitch55@utk.edu
Zahra Amer, M.A.
Graduate Student, 4th Year
I was born and raised here in Knoxville, Tennessee. I received my Bachelor’s degree from UTK in 2018. In the past, my research has focused on infidelity and dissemination science. I have found that my passion is conducting research that can help serve underrepresented populations, with a particular focus on the South Asian immigrant (SAI) population in the US. I recently conducted my Master’s Thesis in which I ran qualitative semi-structured interviews with members of the SAI population in Knoxville in order to better understand some of the struggles SAI families are facing as they grapple with their evolving (or not-so-evolving) definitions of marriage.
When I’m not on campus, my hobbies include watching movies, going to restaurants in the Old City, and spending time with my family and friends, as well as my dogs Lyla and Sasha.
Email: zamer@vols.utk.edu
Matthew McCall, B.S.
Graduate Student, 2nd year
I graduated from the UNC-Chapel Hill in 2018 with a degree in psychology and minors in chemistry and music. My research interests center on the interplay between individual and relationship functioning within couples. In this domain, my previous research explored the unique experiences of psychosocial dysfunction related to low romantic relationship quality for adolescent girls and boys. My current research program with adult couples aims to investigate contextual and intrapersonal factors that can stifle or sustain long-term commitment and satisfaction, with the goal of contributing to the development and community implementation of couple interventions. Outside of my work in the lab, I delight in trail running, excellent coffee, and spending time with my lovely wife Laura.
Email: matt.mccall@utk.edu