CIE Researcher of Distinction, March 2019

 

Sirena Ibrahim

Each month, the Center for Inclusive Education showcases the outstanding research being conducted by one of our talented scholars in our Research Café series. In addition, we recognize this scholar as a Researcher of Distinction and share the details of his/her journey to becoming an accomplished scholar. This month's Researcher of Distinction is Sirena Ibrahim, PhD candidate in Social & Health Psychology. Sirena presented her work, ‘What to Expect When Your Partner is Expecting’ on Thursday, March 14, 2019.

 

SIRENA'S PATH INTO RESEARCH

Sirena is  a graduate student in Social and Health Psychology at Stony Brook University. She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology and Health Science at California State University, Fullerton. Her research focuses on social psychological aspects of health, particularly women’s reproductive health. More specifically, she is investigating prenatal stress, coregulation of stress between couples and coping. Sirena is a Turner Fellow in the Center for Inclusive Education.

SIRENA's Current Research

Describe the work you presented for your Research Café.

Traditionally, women have been the focus of research on psychosocial aspects of pregnancy; however, pregnancy can be viewed as a developmental phase and as a challenging process for men. However, limited research suggests that expectant fathers may experience distinct types of stress which have the potential to adversely affect their health and well-being. My work examines the specific types of stressors expectant fathers may experience during his partner’s pregnancy.

What was the deciding factor for you to come to Stony Brook for your graduate studies?

I really valued the collaborative environment created by the University.

Are there any other projects, beyond your Research Café work, that you are currently working on? 

For my dissertation I am examining father involvement in the context of pregnancy. More specifically, I am investigating attitudes of father involvement, behavioral intentions, and how this leads to father involvement during the post-partum period.

What are your future goals?

I enjoy both teaching and research; therefore, any environment that allows me to do both would be ideal.

What do you enjoy most about research?

I really enjoy that research is a creative process. For example, thinking about a problem/issue and thinking about ways to examine it is always a fun process!