Perhaps the most important milestone of adolescence is learning to synthesize visceral and cognitive processes. Professor Baird is interested in examining the mechanisms that underlie an adolescent’s ability to engage cognitive and emotional processes in order to navigate their social worlds. In most instances, this developmental process runs smoothly and, over time, emotion and cognition come to work together fluidly in both automatic and effortful processes. However, Professor Baird contends that developmental disruptions to this process can have serious and long-lasting consequences for the individual. Her research questions lie at the intersection of cognitive neuroscience and social development.
To explore Professor Baird's publications, click here