UROP Project
Examining Externalizing Behaviors on Suicide Risk
suicide prevention, mental health, substance use, self-injury
Research Mentor: Sara Prostko, she/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sprostko@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Psychology, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: sprostko@psy.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: While I am particularly interested in individuals with majors related to psychology or mental health, anyone is encouraged to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: While I am particularly interested in individuals with majors related to psychology or mental health, anyone is encouraged to apply!
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 6-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Project Description
This project examines how externalizing behaviors, such as substance use, relates to suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs). The primary goal is to explore how these often underexplored risk factors for suicide relate to both STBs and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (ITS). Participants will complete a series of self-report measures across two timepoints, that are one month apart. Recruitment is expected to begin in Fall 2025, and will continue until a population of at least 300 is reached.Research Tasks: Research tasks for this study will include monitoring participant requests, contacting and scheduling eligible participants as necessary, and reaching out and tracking follow-up surveys. There may also be opportunities to conduct suicide risk assessments, and participate in other research studies, such as one using virtual reality to provide insight on decision making related to suicide attempts.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: My main interest is for people to have a willingness to learn, so please apply if you have this but may lack some of the skills listed below.
Required Skills:
- Strong communication skills
- A basic understanding and fluency with Excel
Recommended Skills:
- Familiarity with suicide risk factors
- Time management
- Interest in suicide prevention or clinical research
- Experience with Qualtrics
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy is based on mutual respect, autonomy, and growth. I aim to create a supportive environment where mentees feel like they can take ownership of their work, develop independence, and grow both intellectually and professionally. I also provide thorough hands-on training to ensure confidence with the research protocols and expectations. I gradually step back to allow mentees to take the lead in their responsibilities.I do not believe in micromanagement. I trust mentees to take initiative and hold themselves accountable and reach out when they encounter challenges. I do not view mistakes and roadblocks as failures but rather as learning opportunities. I prioritize responding to these problems with patience and as an opportunity to learn from both parties than with frustration or disappointment.