Observation laboratory

A researcher directs participants of an observation study behind a 2 way mirror

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About the Observation laboratory

We use this laboratory to carry out observation techniques and record social interactions.

The lab has a 1 way mirror between adjoining rooms and a recording suite. We view study participants and record their interactions.

An example of a study could be a shared task given to strangers. With the lab we can investigate the relationship between personality traits and rapport building.

Related research highlights

Close up of a young person's eyes looking into the distance

Helping young people overcome early neglect

Future societies and communities

Health and wellbeing

A Southampton collaboration explores the impact of early neglect and deprivation on Romanian adoptees. The work aims to inform policy and practice to help young people and their families get the right support.

Professor Tim Wildschut FAcSS

Prfssr of Social & Personality Psycholog

Connect with Tim

Email: [email protected]

Dr Claire Hart

Associate Professor

Research interests

My research is located in the area of quantitative social/personality psychology. In particular, I conduct research on narcissistic dysfunction in the interpersonal domain.
I am currently involved in projects investigating:
the self-presentation of narcissistsnostalgia and narcissismnarcissism and social supportnarcissism and empathynarcissism and mimicrynarcissism and bullyingnarcissism and prosocial behavioursnarcissism and crimenarcissism and parentingnarcissism and consumerismnarcissism and team functioningnarcissism and romantic relationships

Connect with Claire

Email: [email protected]

Dr Kathy Carnelley

Associate Professor

Research interests

My research area is personal relationships. I investigate the ways in which attachment experiences with parents and romantic partners influence how people view the self, others and relationships. My research focuses on how models of self and others influence people's thoughts, emotions, and behaviours in romantic relationships, for example relationship functioning and caregiving. I am co-founder of the UK Attachment Network.
One stream of my research focuses on moving people toward felt security. Attachment security is associated with better relationship quality and well-being. I examine the extent to which temporarily activated attachment security (via priming) can lead to these positive outcomes in a series of studies. With my colleagues and students, for example, I have investigated the effects of priming attachment security on self-views and relationship-views, feelings of vitality and energy, pain sensitivity, mental health, and therapy attitudes. In addition, I have tested ways to increase the impact of a security prime via repeated priming in the lab, online, or via text messaging.
Other streams of research focus on attachment networks (e.g., who serves as attachment figures, how they change over time). Recently I’ve investigated the role of partners in coping with the Covid-19 pandemic, examining personal and relational wellbeing and goals. I’m also interested in close relationships and technology use (e.g., technoference).

Connect with Kathy

Email: [email protected]