We are delighted to feature Dr. Lori Warner in our latest Faculty Spotlight. Dr. Warner is an adjunct faculty member teaching in the ABA program.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up “downriver” as we say in Metro Detroit, in the Detroit suburb of Allen Park.
What or who influenced you to study psychology?
I had a high school psychology class that was fantastic, and I was hooked!
What appealed to you most about teaching here at MSP?
I love learning what students are passionate about in the field and helping them on their journey to improve the world in their own way.
What are your research and/or clinical interests?
I’m not actively involved in my own research currently, but co-mentor a medical student at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine in her study of relationships between eye contact and requesting skills in preschoolers diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. My past research has focused on the benefits of an expressive writing paradigm (e.g., stemming from James Pennebaker’s work) as well as a descriptive paper about a parent-training preschool ABA program developed at Beaumont Hospital.
What is your favorite non-academic book and why?
Tough question! I am an avid reader and have SO many favorites. It’s a tie between The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. Both these books tackle deep questions and insights within the realm of fantasy, and they are simply a joy to read.
What advice would you like to share with incoming or current students?
One of my favorite quotes is a Japanese proverb: Fall seven times, stand up eight. The ability to keep standing up, being open to learning and growing, and having some fun along the way when you can, is the best advice I can give.
