Research studies for 2- to 6-month-olds and 4- and 5-year-olds

The JMU Cognitive Development Lab studies how babies and children perceive their worlds. We invite your child to participate in one of our studies.

Study for 2- to 6-month-old infants (IRB 24-4677)

Babies between 2 and 6 months of age with normal vision are invited to participate in a study to learn more about how infants mimic other infants’ expressions.

You and your baby will come to JMU’s campus for a one-time 30-minute session. Parking is available next to the building! Your baby will watch short videos of other babies with different expression (crying, happiness, yawning, and neutral). Your baby’s eye gaze and their face will be recorded during the session. You will be compensated $20 for the visit.

Study for 4- and 5-year-old children (IRB-FY26-400)

Children who are 4 and 5 years of age may be eligible to participate in a study in which we are examining children’s attention to animals, faces, and objects. 

Your child will be shown faces and objects on a screen while we record where on the screen your child is looking. The session will take less than 30 minutes, with your child’s part lasting no more than 20 minutes. You will be compensated $20 for your time.

Parking

We have convenient parking right outside the building (Miller Hall) and a place for siblings to play during the session. 

Child development is fascinating but is challenging without the help of engaged parents like you! If you have questions or would like further information about the study, please contact Dr. Krisztina Jakobsen (jakobskv@jmu.edu).

Please feel free to share with others who may be interested.

JMU Cognitive Development Lab

Department of Psychology