About Dr. Nishina

Professor, Human Ecology, UC Davis

PhD - Clinical Psycholoy, UCLA

MS - Clinical Psychology, UCLA

BA - Psychology; Anthropology, UCLA

My research focuses on adolescent peer relationships and ethnicity within broader social contexts.  In particular, I examine the interplay between ethnic diversity in peer groups--primarily in school or friendship settings--and adolescent functioning.  In the past, I have examined the individual and contextual factors under which peer victimization or bullying predicts greater psychosocial, physical, and academic maladjustment. Other collaborative work has explored ways in which use of physical space on campus can shape students’ experiences at school, and how food exchanges during lunchtime at school can inform our understanding of peer relationships.  To explore these research areas I use both short- and longer-term longitudinal, quantitative study designs in elementary school, middle school, high school, and early college samples. 

Am I accepting PhD students this year?

YES!! I am accepting PhD (or MS) students for the 2025-2026 incoming class.  Please apply for both admission and university fellowships by the priority deadline on December 1, 2024, review application recommendations, and contact me with any questions. 

I will be on Zoom to chat and answer any questions you may have about my lab or the Human Development graduate program at UC Davis.

Tuesday November 12 from 3:30-4:30 PST

And Friday November 15 from 9-10am PST