Vitaliya Droutman

Summary Statement of Research Interests

My research interest is the neurobiology of risky-decision making and understanding how the decision process is impacted by development, social context and substance use. My main interest is an understanding of the adolescent decision process as it pertains to drug use, both on the behavioral and neural level. Being a social psychologist, I focus on the role of social context in risky decisions, since peer groups become critically significant during this developmental period.

I also study impact of mindfulness training and practice on self-regulation, decision-making and wellbeing. My current project funded by Mind&Life Institute and in collaboration with Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District examines impact mindfulness training for teachers on teacher’s well-being and effectiveness, classroom climate and students academic performance.