My main research interest is in the field of development and disability. I am particularly interested in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and my work has focussed on interactions between some of the features of the disorder, such as sensory processing abnormalities, repetitive and restricted behaviours and neuropsychological functioning and the development of anxiety. I am also interested in the development of worry and anxiety in typically developing children and adolescents and the application and adaptation of cognitive models of anxiety to understand the developmental aspects of these phenomena.
The implications and consequences of recreational drug use, particularly the recreational use of MDMA (ecstasy) and cannabis.
Current collaborators include Professor Helen McConachie, Newcastle (ASD/anxiety), Professor Mark Freeston, Newcastle (anxiety), Dr Debbie Riby, Newcastle (Williams Syndrome/anxiety), Dr Jeremy Parr, Newcastle, (ASD), Dr Lindsay Pennington, Newcastle, (Cerebral Palsy), Dr Emily Janes, Newcastle (Williams syndrome), Dr Emma Honey, Newcastle (ASD),Professor Sue Leekam (ASD) (Cardiff University) Professor Mikle South (ASD) (Brigham Young University, Utah, USA)
I am a research tutor on the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and contribute to research methods teaching.