Simmons University Behavior Analysis PhD Student Researches Microaggressions

In a groundbreaking dissertation, Amy Maladore ’16MS ’25PhD from Simmons University is applying behavior analysis principles to increase recognition of racist behavior and microaggressions. Her innovative research represents a unique intersection of behavior analysis and social justice, demonstrating the field’s potential to address complex societal issues.

Understanding Microaggressions Through Behavior Analysis

Microaggressions are subtle verbal or behavioral slights that communicate derogatory attitudes toward marginalized groups. While the term wasn’t coined until the 1970s, these behaviors have existed throughout history. Maladore’s research focuses on creating systems to help people identify these microaggressions more effectively.

“Before we had language for what a microaggression was, how do you explain it to the person on either side?” Maladore explains. “It’s useful to define it; it validates the experience.” Her dissertation, “A Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) to Teach Matching of Racial Microaggressions,” successfully defended in spring 2025, represents one small but significant step in this important work.

The Simmons Advantage in Behavior Analysis Education

Maladore’s journey through Simmons University’s behavior analysis programs exemplifies the institution’s commitment to innovative research and practical application. After earning her master’s degree in behavior analysis, she returned for the PhD program, citing the exceptional faculty as a primary reason.

“Simmons is amazing. The professors are particularly special,” she notes. The program’s flexibility allowed her to pursue research that aligned with her values while maintaining rigorous academic standards. This combination of academic excellence and personal support is characteristic of Simmons’ approach to graduate education.

Practical Applications in Public Education

Beyond her research, Maladore works as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® in Somerville Public Schools, where she applies behavior analysis principles to support students with diverse needs. Her work involves consulting with teachers, administrators, and other service providers to address both skill acquisition and behavioral management challenges.

“I consult with teachers, administrators, and other service providers to support them with students’ needs. For some, it’s skill acquisition. For others, it’s behavioral management. I often work directly with students, model [techniques], and consult with the staff,” she explains. This hands-on experience enriches her research and provides real-world context for her academic work.

Research Methodology and Innovation

Maladore’s dissertation methodology drew heavily from sociological research and the taxonomy of racial microaggressions created by Derald Wing Sue, a professor of counseling psychology at Columbia University. She employed a Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) to teach participants how to identify racial microaggressions effectively.

Throughout the research process, she asked critical questions: “How do we make sure that we are talking about the same thing? Are we having a causal effect? Was this intervention effective based on these parameters?” This rigorous approach ensures that her findings are both valid and applicable to real-world situations.

Advice for Future Researchers

For doctoral students embarking on their research journey, Maladore offers valuable insights. “You have to find something that continues to pull you in while you’re reading about it. You have to go in knowing what you want to do, but [be flexible enough] to shift and shape things to make it feasible.”

She also emphasizes the importance of perspective: “You don’t have to change the world with your dissertation; this is just one step. It’s hard to see that when you are getting into a research topic.” This balanced approach helps researchers maintain motivation while managing expectations.

Expanding Research Horizons

Maladore’s work extends beyond microaggressions into women’s health research. Currently collaborating with Associate Professor Gretchen Dittrich, she’s applying behavior analysis principles to teach breastfeeding to new parents. This research addresses the unique challenges faced by postpartum individuals who may lack social and financial support.

“It’s amazing that I can [use my behavior analysis skills] to research women’s health [in the context of] the marginalized communities we’re trying to serve,” she says. This work demonstrates the versatility of behavior analysis as a framework for addressing diverse societal challenges.

The Future of Behavior Analysis

Maladore sees tremendous potential for behavior analysis to address complex social issues. “Everything is behavior! [The field of behavior analysis] allows us to find interesting, creative, and effective ways to teach [new behaviors], and it can be applied to different contexts and different populations.”

Her work exemplifies how behavior analysis can move beyond traditional applications to address pressing social issues. By combining rigorous scientific methodology with a commitment to social justice, researchers like Maladore are expanding the field’s impact and relevance.

Academic Support and Publication

The Simmons PhD program provided crucial support throughout Maladore’s research journey. She worked closely with faculty member and advisor Kylan Turner, who provided guidance and mentorship throughout the dissertation process.

Additionally, the course “Dissemination” (DABA 640), taught by Associate Professor Gretchen Dittrich, proved particularly valuable. “A dissertation is too long for publication, but doctoral students are typically required to publish in a journal,” Maladore explains. “That course was very helpful in guiding us through the editing process.”

Impact and Implications

Maladore’s research has significant implications for both behavior analysis and social justice work. By developing systematic approaches to identifying microaggressions, her work provides tools for addressing these subtle forms of discrimination more effectively.

Her research also demonstrates the potential for behavior analysis to contribute to broader social conversations about race, identity, and discrimination. This interdisciplinary approach enriches both the field of behavior analysis and the broader academic discourse on social justice.

Continuing the Conversation

As Maladore continues her research and professional work, she remains committed to disseminating behavior analysis principles wherever she serves. “I believe my work is to disseminate behavior analysis no matter where I am currently serving,” she states.

Her journey from master’s student to PhD researcher to practicing BCBA exemplifies the comprehensive education and support available at Simmons University. Through her innovative research and practical applications, Maladore is helping to shape the future of behavior analysis while addressing critical social issues.

Learn More About Behavior Analysis at Simmons

Interested in pursuing behavior analysis at Simmons University? The institution offers comprehensive programs at both the master’s and doctoral levels, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to make meaningful contributions to the field.

Whether you’re interested in research like Maladore’s or practical applications in education, healthcare, or other settings, Simmons’ behavior analysis programs offer the foundation for a rewarding career in this dynamic field.