A second line of research probes the biases that shape human learning abilities, and the relationship between these biases and the structure of human languages. A thrid issue concerns the extent to which the learning abilities underlying this process are specifically tailored for language acquisition. Wightman, Frederic L. Hearing Development Research Laboratory Perception and Sensory psychology with special interest in auditory perception. Research interests include localization of sounds and auditory space perception, consequences of hearing impairment, auditory perception during development and aging, mechanisms of spectral and temporal resolution, computer applications. Developmental Dannemiller, James Vision Development Laboratory Developmental psychology with special interest in early perceptual development.
Current research includes study of development of basic visual processes during early infancy.
Assessment of infant emotional reactivity, study of the emotional atmosphere of the home, and measurement of self-concept are special interests. Hyde, Janet Developmental psychology with special interest in gender-role development. Ryff, Carol Developmental psychology with special interest in life-span personality development. Current research includes studies on self-perceived personality change with aging, the relationship between critical life events and personality change, and cultural variations in conceptions of ideal development. Social and Personality Caspi, Avshalom Social psychology and Personality with special interests in personality processes and individual differences, social change, linking macro and micro theory in social psychology, and the study of role transitions.