My work broadly focuses on the inter-relationships among interpersonal violence and their outcomes in domains of physical and mental health. My research frequently draws from interdisciplinary research and forges collaborations with healthcare professionals. My research lens is trauma informed and I am particularly interested in studying posttraumatic stress disorder, body image disturbance, depression and substance use disorders as mental health outcomes. Previous projects include a completed study funded by the National Institute of Mental Health. This study examined the psychological and health-related impacts of acute and lasting injuries in female victims of intimate partner violence. Within this study I explored ways in which lasting, violence-related appearance changes may impact physical and psychological functioning with an emphasis on body image disturbance. I have continued this line of research over the past twenty years and have extended the examination to other trauma-exposed populations--e.g., women who experienced rape and other forms of sexual assault and combat veterans. I have also been actively developing the construct of trauma-related body image distress. My most recent work has focused on examining how victim impact statements may inform the meaning-making processes associated with sexual abuse as well as the ways in which substance abuse is interwoven within the causes and consequences of interpersonal violence. I have an interest in mixed-methods research--that is research that includes quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Generally, my work is informed by cross-cutting theories and integrates areas of clinical, developmental, health and medical psychology. Outcomes of my research have policy and practice implications and address issues of social justice.The undergraduate and graduate students working with me have explored a broad number of topics related to trauma, health, and diversity. I welcome students who are passionate about clinical research and are as driven to ask research questions as they are to seek answers. Dr. Weaver will not be taking a new graduate student, Fall, 2025.
Awards
2009 - Office of Research Services Grantsmanship Award
2001 - Office of Research Services Grantsmanship Award
1994-95 - NIMH Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: Adult and Child Trauma Victims
2001 - Office of Research Services Grantsmanship Award
1994-95 - NIMH Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: Adult and Child Trauma Victims
- National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center
- National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Interpersonal Victimization: A Search for Long-Term Abuse Specific Outcomes Using a Sample of Battered Women.
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Early Family Environments and Traumatic Experiences Associated with Borderline Personality Disorder.
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