Stephanie (Robbins) Tikkanen, Ph.D.
Specialization: Interpersonal Communication; New Media
Dr. Tikkanen’s research program focuses on the growing role of new media (e.g., social networking sites, mobile phones) in interpersonal relationships. Specifically, she takes a theoretical and quantitative approach to understanding the way in which channel and structural features interact with individual and relational motivations to affect interpersonal processes across relational types, including families, romantic partners, and friends. Her work has been published in outlets such as Journal of Communication, Journal of Language and Social Psychology, and Communication Research Reports, as well as competitive papers presented at national conferences. She also values her role as a teacher-scholar, equally emphasizing both teaching and research. When not working, Dr. Tikkanen enjoys baking, sewing, reading, and hanging out with family and friends (including her adorable nieces and nephews!).