The Family Attachment Lab (FAL), conducts research on attachment relationships in the family, as well as other close attachment relationships (e.g., romantic, therapeutic). here are three primary areas of investigation: (a) family mechanisms and risk factors that contribute to mental health/illness and relationship functioning throughout the life cycle, (b) relational trauma and loss (e.g., bereavement, divorce, childhood maltreatment, assault, combat), (c) the clinical supervisory and therapeutic relationships. The new lab facility allows the FAL research team to utilize a mulit-method, multi-informant approach to measurement. Rather than using only self-report measures, which are subject to "insider" response bias, we also utilize observational and interview-based assessments, which are more labor-intensive and expensive but are nevertheless the preferred modes of data collection in developmental research.

The primary purpose of Dr. Riggs in establishing this lab was to integrate attachment and family systems theories, which despite their commonalities has rarely been done and can contribute valuable insights regarding interpersonal and family processes. Developmental researchers are increasingly recognizing that other relational systems beyond the parent-child dyad should be studied as potential influences on psychological processes. In particular, interparental and whole family interaction patterns (i.e., the system) may be important to consider as unique contributers to child development and functioning.

At a more practical level, the literature on clinical applications of attachment theory and research to individual, parent-child, group, couples and family therapy has exploded, but the bulk of these contributions are primarily theoretical in nature. Given the surge of interest in attachment processes from couple and family therapists, research specifically examining direct links among attachment and family constructs at multiple levels of the family system is warranted. In particular, clinicians need to be able to consider the unique properties of the individual, dyad, and family system, as well as the relationship between them. By using clinically relevant instruments to assess individual, dyadic, and family processes, the research conducted in FAL can identify the relative contributions of specific subsystems and systems to inform comprehensive treatment planning that targets specific areas of intervention for individuals, couples and families.

The FAL currently has a total of 18 undergraduate and graduate research assistants that are fully trained in data collection procedures, including the Adult Attachment Interview and videotaping family interactions. All students, both graduate and undergraduate, are offered the opportunity to present papers/posters at state, national, and international conferences. Some students are also able to contribute to the writing of articles to be submitted for publication. These presentations and publications are excellent ways to increase the viability of resumes/CVs for educational or employment applications.