Throughout my career, I have been driven by the profound belief that technology, when thoughtfully, cautiously, and ethically applied, has the capacity to uncover insights into the complex and nuanced domain of human behavior and mental health. My research endeavors are rooted in the fields of computational social science, machine learning, and human-computer interaction, particularly focusing on how social media and digital traces can inform our understanding of or influence mental well-being. The overarching question that motivates my work has been: How can we leverage the rich data from digital footprints to enhance our understanding and support of mental health?
Research Thrusts. In an era where online interactions are transcending physical ones, the imprint of our mental health is increasingly visible in the virtual landscapes we inhabit. However, these virtual spaces are not monoliths -- they are so much intertwined in our lives, that they impact what we do, how we think, and why we feel in certain ways. In fact, we are turning to these platforms for help and support, when these resources of psychological wellness may not be available elsewhere; other times being turned away from them due to antisocial content, violent speech, or harassment. My academic journey has, therefore, been to decode the nuanced relationship between social media usage and mental health, articulated through three guiding inquiries: a) Can social media serve as a window into our mental health? b) What influence do positive and negative engagements on social media have on our mental health?} And crucially, c) Can we design social technologies that not only reflect but also amplify our mental health in an ethical, equitable manner?
By examining these questions through rigorous computational approaches, human-centered technology design, and diverse partnerships, my work aims to unravel the varied ways in which online environments affect us. I seek to bridge the gap between our social media engagements and psychological health, offering insights into how we can harness these interactions for greater wellbeing outcomes in the society. Broadly, I am passionate about imagining and creating a digital ecosystem that supports and sustains the mental health of its diverse users.
Research Approach and Philosophy. My research approach is therefore fundamentally interdisciplinary, blending methodologies from computer science, psychology, and public health to pursue the above goal. My research philosophy centers on the conviction that technology should serve humanity's best interests; my work takes inspiration from philosophical theories of social justice. To this end, I advocate for the development of computational methods and tools that are not only technically robust but also socially responsible. I prioritize transparency and accountability in my work, adopting a participatory and a team science approach, striving to ensure that technological advancements empower individuals, communities, and populations in their pursuit of mental health, rather than diminish their autonomy. Each study I undertake is, therefore, designed with a deep sense of ethical responsibility, a participatory and a team science approach, aiming to foster trust and promote well-being at the intersection of technology and mental health.
I have led pioneering research exploring the complex connections between social media behavior and mental health. My innovative approaches and perceptive conclusions have not only earned global recognition, but also my contributions have significantly advanced the creation of computational (machine learning and AI-based) methods and tools for early detection, intervention, and support in mental health care (see my Bio page). This has promoted cross-disciplinary partnerships spanning academia, health providers, advocacy organizations, industry, and public health agencies.
For further information on our specific projects and publications, please check out the Papers page.