Chapman University Experts on Motherhood Available for Interviews Faculty experts offer research and data on mother-daughter relationships and communication, films about motherhood, the effects of motherhood on the brain, art's depiction of mothers, and mother-infant interactions.

Chapman University offers the expertise of the following researchers in the realm of motherhood. I’m eager to connect you with these diverse experts by phone or email. Please reach out to me at carmurphy@chapman.edu or 714-289-3196 so I can be of help to you. 

• Michelle-Miller Day is a renowned scholar and researcher who focuses on mother-daughter communication. Professor Miller-Day has conducted extensive research on the intricacies of communication within mother-daughter relationships, examining topics such as conflict resolution, support, and bonding. Her work sheds light on the ways in which communication patterns between mothers and daughters can affect their overall relationship, as well as the importance of effective communication in fostering positive outcomes. 
• Christine Fugate, is a highly acclaimed film producer and director, whose work delves into the intricate and often challenging lives of women. Her films, such as “The Southern Sex” and “Mother Love,” offer thought-provoking insights into the experiences of women, exploring their struggles, joys, and triumphs. Fugate’s syndicated column “Mothering Heights,” shares her observations and perspectives on the complexities of motherhood.
• Dr. Laura Glynn, professor of psychology and associate dean for research, is an expert on the effects of motherhood on the brain and behavior, exploring the biological and psychological changes that occur during pregnancy and motherhood, and the long-term impacts of these changes on women’s health and well-being. Her work sheds light on the biological and environmental factors that shape the experience of motherhood, and offers insights into the physiological and psychological processes that underlie maternal behavior and emotional regulation.
• Denise Johnson, is an expert of feminism and motherhood as represented in the arts. As a scholar and researcher, Johnson has explored the portrayal of motherhood in various forms of artistic expression, from literature and film to visual art and performance. Her work sheds light on the ways in which these representations reflect and shape cultural attitudes towards motherhood, as well as how feminist perspectives can inform and challenge traditional depictions. 
• Mary Fagan studies mother-infant interactions and focuses on the critical period of early childhood development, examining the ways in which mothers and infants interact and bond during this formative time. Through her research, Associate Professor Fagan has shed light on the importance of positive mother-infant interactions in promoting healthy cognitive and emotional development in children. Her insights offer valuable guidance for parents and caregivers seeking to create nurturing and supportive environments for their infants.

About Chapman University

Founded in 1861, Chapman University is a nationally ranked private university located in Southern California. Chapman is categorized by the Carnegie Classification as an R2 “high research activity” institution and offers personalized education to more than 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students. The campus has produced a Rhodes Scholar, been named a top producer of Fulbright Scholars, and hosts a chapter of Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious honor society. Based in the City of Orange, Chapman also includes the Harry and Diane Rinker Health Science Campus in Irvine. In 2019, the university opened its 11th college, Dale E. and Sarah Ann Fowler School of Engineering, in its newest facility, Keck Center for Science and Engineering. Learn more about Chapman University: www.chapman.edu.

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Cerise Valenzuela Metzger, Director of Public Relations | cmetzger@chapman.edu | 714-289-3143

Carly Murphy, Public Relations Coordinator | carmurphy@chapman.edu | Desk: 714-289-3181 | Mobile: 714-497-9683