Diana Perez

Biography

As a Queer Afro-Latina doctoral candidate specializing in Data Science and Research Methodology in Psychology at Utah State University, I offer an interdisciplinary perspective of psychology and issues that impact marginalized communities. I am a member of the Culture and Mental Health Lab, advised by Dr. Melanie Domenech Rodríguez. I completed a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from California State University, Northridge, and a Master's in Psychology with a specialization in the Experimental Analysis of Behavior Analysis from Utah State University, my academic focus has been on integrating multicultural and racial elements into behavior analytic frameworks. My current research, which will form the basis of my dissertation, investigates response-based interventions aimed at reducing implicit racial bias among healthcare students. This research builds on my thesis work, which examines the relationship between impulsive decision-making and racial biases. My interdisciplinary approach is deeply influenced by my personal experiences and my understanding of systemic oppression. I have contributed to various research projects, including studies on delay discounting, response inhibition, LGBTQ+ community resilience, training feedback in applied behavior analysis, and culturally competent behavioral analysis training. In addition to my research endeavors, I am deeply committed to teaching and mentoring, particularly in psychological research methods and behavior analysis. My active participation in the Graduate Students of Color Association and other community activities highlights my dedication to creating inclusive and equitable academic environments. I also possess expertise in statistical analysis, including multiple regression, multi-level modeling, and longitudinal data analysis. Beyond academia, my personal interests lie in photography, hiking, kayaking, and spending time with Luna (my dog).