My research focuses on understanding adolescent social and cognitive development. I am fascinated by this period, which is characterized by dramatic social change at an age where social relationships are as essential as they are changeable. In my work I aim to elucidate the underlying abilities which allow adolescents to flexibly navigate their increasingly complex social environments. This has included studying the development of socio-cognitive abilities such as emotion recognition, perspective taking and interpersonal trust, as well understanding how the social context can impact these abilities. In recent years I have also become increasingly interested in the effects social relationships may have on adolescent mental health, and specifically on internalizing symptoms.