Research and Publications
Dr. Pyland is dedicated to contributing to the understanding of trauma, identity development, and the diverse experiences of individuals navigating mental health challenges. While her research interests increasingly focus on neurodivergence, her broader body of work includes research publications on topics such as attachment, relational trauma, and mental health outcomes across diverse populations.
Dr. Pyland values the integration of research and practice, using evidence-based insights to inform her clinical work and ensure her clients receive the most compassionate and effective care. This page highlights a selection of her most recent projects, showcasing her ongoing commitment to bridging academic research with real-world applications.
Mindfulness Lab
Exploring the Impact of Mindfulness on Well-Being
Dr. Pyland and her research team have conducted a groundbreaking study to explore the transformative effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on mental and physical well-being. This 12-week study examines how mindfulness practices, even when practiced irregularly, influence brain function, sleep quality, anxiety, stress, attention, and vitality.
Participants were assigned to low- or high-frequency meditation groups, with progress tracked through a combination of self-reported wellness measures and quantitative EEGs (QEEG), an advanced neuroimaging technique. By integrating objective neurological data with subjective outcomes, the research provides a comprehensive view of how mindfulness can foster resilience and enhance overall quality of life.
The team is currently analyzing the QEEG data to uncover further insights into the brain's response to mindfulness practices. Preliminary results are promising, and the findings will be submitted for publication in the coming months.
This study represents a significant step forward in understanding the mechanisms behind mindfulness’ benefits. Stay tuned for updates and the opportunity to learn more about how mindfulness can empower individuals and promote holistic well-being.
ADHD Identity Development Lab
Redefining ADHD
Dr. Pyland and her research team have conducted an innovative study examining how adults with ADHD integrate their diagnosis into their identity. This research explores the relationship between the age of diagnosis, the presence of co-occurring conditions, and life events to understand the complex factors that shape ADHD identity development across diverse populations.
The findings reveal intriguing trends, such as how older age at diagnosis correlates with greater acceptance and integration of ADHD as a part of one’s identity. Additionally, the study highlights disparities in ADHD identity rejection and acceptance among individuals from different racial, ethnic, and gender backgrounds.
This research sheds light on the interplay of neurodivergence, stigma, and identity formation, emphasizing the need for inclusive, supportive policies and interventions that empower those with ADHD. Currently under peer review, this study promises to contribute significantly to advancing our understanding of ADHD and neurodiversity. Stay tuned for updates on this impactful work and its potential to reshape perspectives on ADHD identity.
Challenging Neuronormativity
Introducing a Neuroaffirming Identity Development Model
Dr. Claudia Porras Pyland and Dr. Amy Rodriguez Tackett have co-authored a paper that introduces a new framework for understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals. This model moves beyond traditional deficit-based approaches, advocating for a strengths-based perspective that frames neurodivergent traits as integral aspects of identity rather than problems to be fixed.
The manuscript emphasizes the impact of societal expectations, ableism, and internalized stigma on the identity development of neurodivergent individuals, while offering practical strategies for fostering self-acceptance, empowerment, and authenticity. Drawing on clinical expertise and extensive research, this Identity-Affirming Model integrates insights from neurodiversity-affirming practices, decolonial perspectives, and identity development theories to create a holistic framework.
Currently under peer review, this manuscript represents an important step in advancing inclusive and affirming approaches to neurodivergence.
Ethical and Diversity Considerations of Mandatory Reporting
Dr. Claudia Porras Pyland and her colleagues published an article in Training and Education in Professional Psychology examining the complexities of mandatory reporting in cases of suspected child maltreatment. This study highlights the systemic challenges and biases that disproportionately impact marginalized families, such as those living in poverty or from racially diverse backgrounds.
Dr. Pyland and her team advocate for a nuanced and culturally informed approach to mandatory reporting, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between poverty and neglect while mitigating biases that may lead to overreporting. The article provides educators with practical recommendations for training psychology students in ethical decision-making processes that balance legal requirements with considerations for minimizing harm to families.
By incorporating case examples and ethical decision-making models, the paper equips mental health professionals to navigate the intricacies of mandatory reporting with greater sensitivity. This publication represents an important step toward promoting equity and justice in child protection practices.
Understanding Rape Culture
Development of the Gender-Inclusive Rape Myth Scale (GIRMA)
Rebekah Urban, M.A. and Dr. Pyland developed the Gender-Inclusive Rape Myth Acceptance Scale (GIRMA), an innovative tool designed to address the limitations of traditional measures of rape myth acceptance. Recognizing that existing scales primarily focus on cisgender women and fail to capture the experiences of cisgender men and transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals, the GIRMA aims to provide a comprehensive and inclusive assessment of rape myths across all genders.
The study involved two phases: the development of a 73-item scale followed by rigorous testing and refinement. Through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, the team established a concise, psychometrically sound 18-item scale that measures rape myths across a single factor. This scale offers a culturally attuned, inclusive framework aligned with current understandings of rape culture.
The GIRMA fills a critical gap in the field by enabling researchers, educators, and prevention specialists to address rape myths more holistically. The study was published in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence.
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