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.

Challenging NeuronormativityCurrently in press

Introducing the Integrative NeuroAffirming Framework (INAF)

The Counseling Psychologist— Accepted as a Major Contribution — featured in the July 2026 issue.

Dr. Claudia Porras Pyland and Dr. Amy Rodriguez Tackett have co-authored a paper that introduces a new framework for understanding and supporting MINDS individuals—Misunderstood, Intersectionally Neurodiverse, and Silenced. This model moves beyond traditional deficit-based approaches, advocating for a strengths-based perspective that frames MINDS 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 MINDS individuals, while offering practical strategies for fostering self-acceptance, empowerment, and authenticity. Drawing on clinical expertise and extensive research, INAF integrates insights from neurodiversity-affirming practices, decolonial perspectives, and identity development theories to create a holistic framework.

Download PDF

Mindfulness LabPresented at APA 2025

Exploring the Impact of Mindfulness on Well-Being

2025 American Psychological Association Convention, Denver

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.

Download PDF

ADHD Identity Development LabPublished

Redefining ADHD: Identity Development Across Diverse Populations

Identity: An International Journal of Theory and Research

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.

Download PDF

Ethics in PracticePublished

Ethical and Diversity Considerations of Mandatory Reporting

Training and Education in Professional Psychology

Dr. Claudia Porras Pyland and her colleagues published an article 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.

Download PDF

Understanding Rape CulturePublished

Development of the Gender-Inclusive Rape Myth Scale (GIRMA)

Journal of Interpersonal Violence

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.

Download PDF

See the Frameworks in Action

The research on this page forms the foundation for Dr. Porras Pyland's original theoretical frameworks and her education and consultation work. Explore how this scholarship translates into practice.

Original Frameworks & Contributions

Explore the INAF, the NID Model, and Dysregulation Theory — three original theoretical contributions grounded in this body of research.

View Frameworks

Education & Consultation

Learn how Dr. Porras Pyland brings this research to life through trainings, speaking engagements, and consultation services for professionals and organizations.

Learn More

Interested in Research Collaboration?

Dr. Porras Pyland welcomes academic partnerships, speaking invitations, and opportunities to advance neurodiversity-affirming scholarship.

Get in Touch