In the ProgressLab we study how people’s intimate lives are affected by conditions of social inequality. Research in the lab draws from social/personality psychology, critical and feminist psychology, as well as feminist theory, critical theory, cultural studies, and the inter-disciplinary field of sexuality research.

Under the direction of Dr. Sara McClelland, studies in the lab have included investigations of sexual health, satisfaction, self-concept, identity, and other dimensions of sexuality. Research in the ProgressLab often relies on feminist empirical methods that involve questions of how knowledge is made, the use of psychological research in applied settings, and issues of social justice.

Research in the ProgressLab frequently involves a close analysis of research methods, as well as the development of new measures and methods. Studies in the lab use a wide range of data collection methods, including interviewing, self-report surveys, focus groups, Q methods, and national datasets, including the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health). In addition, we are developing several new measures in the field of sexual satisfaction and health.