Meet Dr. Zehra Gulseven

I am an incoming Assistant Professor in the Developmental Science area. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Abant Izzet Baysal University in Turkey, and my master’s and Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Science from the University of Missouri, Columbia. Then, I completed my postdoctoral studies in the School of Education at the University of California, Irvine.

The university’s and Psychology Department’s welcoming atmosphere and emphasis on research, and friendly people.

My research focuses on understanding positive social development during childhood and adolescence. I am particularly interested in prosocial behavior and moral development with individual, parental, cultural, and contextual correlates in culturally diverse children and adolescents. I am passionate about this topic because prosocial behaviors are one of the most desirable behaviors and characteristics.

I want the public to know that prosocial behaviors are important indicators of positive social development, moral development, building resilience, kindness, and compassion, as well as social and psychological well-being and good physical and mental health. Prosocial behaviors also promote good citizenship, social harmony, and social integration in our society. 

I love conducting research and learning new things!

“Don’t hesitate to say no sometimes! Your No’s make your Yes’s possible.”

I decided to study psychology in high school, and in college, I decided to complete my doctoral degree and become a faculty member.

I enjoy walking and hiking.

I have a long list of places that I want to travel to, but I would start with New Zealand to visit national parks.

I do ballroom dance with my husband, Ali.