MARISSA L DIENER portrait
  • Professor, Family And Consumer Studies
801-581-8750

Research Summary

Marissa Diener is a developmental psychologist whose research addresses complex and challenging social issues that face youth and impact their well-being. My research assumes that children's characteristics, such as neurodiversity, as well as parents' behavior and expectations, parent-child relationships, and the person-family-in-context are important for children's development. My research involves two approaches: traditional methods as well as community-based participatory designs.

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts, BAPSYC, Georgetown University
  • Master of Arts, MAPSYC, University Of Michigan Ann Arb
  • Doctor of Philosophy, DPSYCH, University Of Illinois Urbana

Biography

My love of psychology came from dinner-time conversations and the fun of trying to understand people's behavior in the real world with her parents, Ed and Carol Diener, both psychologists.  I am thankful to have grown up with an identical twin sister, Mary Beth, and a brother Robert, both also psychologists, as well as two sisters who chose other careers.  I am a professor in the Department of Family & Consumer Studies. My research interests focus on youth optimal development and parent-child relationships, as well as the contexts within which these relationships occur, especially health contexts. I enjoy hiking and reading and the beautiful scenery that Utah offers.  I also enjoy spending time with my husband, two children, and extended family.  

Publications

Washburn, T., Diener, M. L., Curtis, D. S., & Wright, C. A. (2022).  Modern slavery and labor exploitation during the COVID-19 pandemic: A conceptual model.  Global Health Action, 15(1):2074784.  Doi: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2074784.

Kirby, AV, Diener, ML, Dean, EE, Darlington, AN, Myers, A, Henderson, J. (2022).  Autistic adolescents and their parents visions for the future: How aligned are they?  Autism in Adulthood, 4(1), 32-41.   http://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2020.0061

*Diener, ML, Kirby, AV, Sumsion, F., Canary, HE, Green, MM. (2021). Community reintegration needs following paediatric brain injury:  Perspectives of caregivers and service providers.  Disability and rehabilitation, 1-11. 

Rodriguez, J, Bliss, C., Hawes, K., Wood, N. Martineau, M., Diener, M. Lopez, A. (2021).  Introspection to improve pipelines and graduate programs at University of Utah Health.  Family Medicine, 53(8), 730.

Kirby, A. V., Feldman, K. J. C., Himle, M. B., Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., & Hoffman, J. M. (2021). Pilot test of the Maximizing Adolescent Post-Secondary Success (MAPSS) intervention: Supporting parents of autistic youth. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75(3), 7503180070p1-7503180070p11. Special issue on Neurodiversity.

*Warren, N., Eatchel, B., Kirby, A. V., Wright, C., D’Astous, V., Diener, M. (2021).  Parent-Identified Strengths of Autistic Youth.  Autism, 25(1), 79-89.

Kirby, AV, Cottle Feldman, KJ, Hoffman, JM, Diener, ML, Himle MB. (2020). Transition preparation activities and expectations for the transition to adulthood among parents of autistic youth.  Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 78, 101640.

Kirby, A., Diener, M. L., Adkins, D., Wright, C. A. (2020).  Transition Preparation Activities among Families of Youth on the Autism Spectrum:  Preliminary Study using Repeated Time Points Across a School Year.  Plos One, 15(4), e02231551.

Diener, M. L. & Wright, C. (2020).  Advancing Participatory Oriented Research in Research Intensive Universities:  A Case Study of Community Collaboration for Students with Autism.  Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement.

Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., Taylor, C., (2020). Insider insights into autism and employment:  Toward a better “fit” in the workplace.  Work: A Journal of Prevention, Assessment, and Rehabilitation.

Washburn, T., Diener, M. L., Curtis, D. S., & Wright, C. A. (2022).  Modern slavery and labor exploitation during the COVID-19 pandemic: A conceptual model.  Global Health Action, 15(1):2074784.  Doi: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2074784.

Kirby, AV, Diener, ML, Dean, EE, Darlington, AN, Myers, A, Henderson, J. (2022).  Autistic adolescents and their parents visions for the future: How aligned are they?  Autism in Adulthood, 4(1), 32-41.   http://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2020.0061

*Diener, ML, Kirby, AV, Sumsion, F., Canary, HE, Green, MM. (2021). Community reintegration needs following paediatric brain injury:  Perspectives of caregivers and service providers.  Disability and rehabilitation, 1-11. 

Rodriguez, J, Bliss, C., Hawes, K., Wood, N. Martineau, M., Diener, M. Lopez, A. (2021).  Introspection to improve pipelines and graduate programs at University of Utah Health.  Family Medicine, 53(8), 730.

Kirby, A. V., Feldman, K. J. C., Himle, M. B., Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., & Hoffman, J. M. (2021). Pilot test of the Maximizing Adolescent Post-Secondary Success (MAPSS) intervention: Supporting parents of autistic youth. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75(3), 7503180070p1-7503180070p11. Special issue on Neurodiversity.

*Warren, N., Eatchel, B., Kirby, A. V., Wright, C., D’Astous, V., Diener, M. (2021).  Parent-Identified Strengths of Autistic Youth.  Autism, 25(1), 79-89.

Kirby, AV, Cottle Feldman, KJ, Hoffman, JM, Diener, ML, Himle MB. (2020). Transition preparation activities and expectations for the transition to adulthood among parents of autistic youth.  Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 78, 101640.

Kirby, A., Diener, M. L., Adkins, D., Wright, C. A. (2020).  Transition Preparation Activities among Families of Youth on the Autism Spectrum:  Preliminary Study using Repeated Time Points Across a School Year.  Plos One, 15(4), e02231551.

Diener, M. L. & Wright, C. (2020).  Advancing Participatory Oriented Research in Research Intensive Universities:  A Case Study of Community Collaboration for Students with Autism.  Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement.

Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., Taylor, C., (2020). Insider insights into autism and employment:  Toward a better “fit” in the workplace.  Work: A Journal of Prevention, Assessment, and Rehabilitation.

Washburn, T., Diener, M. L., Curtis, D. S., & Wright, C. A. (2022).  Modern slavery and labor exploitation during the COVID-19 pandemic: A conceptual model.  Global Health Action, 15(1):2074784.  Doi: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2074784.

Kirby, AV, Diener, ML, Dean, EE, Darlington, AN, Myers, A, Henderson, J. (2022).  Autistic adolescents and their parents visions for the future: How aligned are they?  Autism in Adulthood, 4(1), 32-41.   http://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2020.0061

*Diener, ML, Kirby, AV, Sumsion, F., Canary, HE, Green, MM. (2021). Community reintegration needs following paediatric brain injury:  Perspectives of caregivers and service providers.  Disability and rehabilitation, 1-11. 

Rodriguez, J, Bliss, C., Hawes, K., Wood, N. Martineau, M., Diener, M. Lopez, A. (2021).  Introspection to improve pipelines and graduate programs at University of Utah Health.  Family Medicine, 53(8), 730.

Kirby, A. V., Feldman, K. J. C., Himle, M. B., Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., & Hoffman, J. M. (2021). Pilot test of the Maximizing Adolescent Post-Secondary Success (MAPSS) intervention: Supporting parents of autistic youth. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75(3), 7503180070p1-7503180070p11. Special issue on Neurodiversity.

*Warren, N., Eatchel, B., Kirby, A. V., Wright, C., D’Astous, V., Diener, M. (2021).  Parent-Identified Strengths of Autistic Youth.  Autism, 25(1), 79-89.

Kirby, AV, Cottle Feldman, KJ, Hoffman, JM, Diener, ML, Himle MB. (2020). Transition preparation activities and expectations for the transition to adulthood among parents of autistic youth.  Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 78, 101640.

Kirby, A., Diener, M. L., Adkins, D., Wright, C. A. (2020).  Transition Preparation Activities among Families of Youth on the Autism Spectrum:  Preliminary Study using Repeated Time Points Across a School Year.  Plos One, 15(4), e02231551.

Diener, M. L. & Wright, C. (2020).  Advancing Participatory Oriented Research in Research Intensive Universities:  A Case Study of Community Collaboration for Students with Autism.  Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement.

Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., Taylor, C., (2020). Insider insights into autism and employment:  Toward a better “fit” in the workplace.  Work: A Journal of Prevention, Assessment, and Rehabilitation.

 

Diener, ML, Shi, K & Park, A. (2020). A Cross-Sectional Study of Caregiver Perceptions of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection:  Knowledge and Attitudes about Screening.  Journal of Pediatrics, 218, 151-156. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.12.005.

* Diener, M. L., & Swedin, M. N. (2019).  Parenting Stress.  Book chapter in The Encyclopedia of Child and Adolescent Development, Eds S. Hupp and J. Jewell, John Wiley: New York. DOI: 10.1002/9781119171492wecad00206

*Diener, M. L., & Groneman, A. (2019).  Siblings with Disabilities.  Book chapter in The Encyclopedia of Child and Adolescent Development, Eds S. Huppand J. Jewell, John Wiley: New York. DOI: 10.1002/9781119171492wecad00217

*Diener, ML, Lofgren, AO, Isabella, R, Magana, S. N., Choi, C, & Gourley, C. (2019). Children’s Distress during Intravenous Placement:  The Role of Child Life Specialists.  Children’s Health Care, 48, 103-119. Doi:10.1080/02739615.2018.1492410

-received the 2019 Association of Child Life Professionals Research Recognition Award

Kirby, A. V., Schneider, M., Diener, M. L., Henderson, J. (2019).  Who is Going to Pay for the Wi-Fi?  Exploring Adulthood from the Perspectives of Autistic Youth.  Autism in Adulthood:  Knowledge, Practice, & Policy, 1(1), 37-43. Doi:10.1089/aut.2018.0008

Wright, C.A., Diener, M.L., *Rafferty, D. *Taylor, C., & Wright, S.D. (2019). Peer Teachers with autism teaching 3D modeling. International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 66, 438-453. Doi:10.1080/1034912X.2018.1540770

*Diener, ML & Kirby, A, Canary, H, Sumison, F, Green, M (2018). Community Reintegration Following Pediatric Acquired Brain Injury: Perspectives of Providers and Families. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation. Vol. 33, E97. 

*Diener, M. L., Choi, C., Isabella, R., & Lofgren, A. (2017).  Medical Professionals’ Perceptions of the Use of Treatment Rooms.  Children’s Health Care. DOI:10.1080/02739615.2015.1124774

*Wright, C.A., Wright, S.D., Diener, M.L., Rafferty, D., & Sampson, A. (2017). Leveraging 3D Technology for Students with Autism:  An Innovative University-Community Collaboration for Skill Development and Vocational Exploration.  Gateways: International Journal of Community Research and Engagement, 10(1), pp. 265-282.  Doi: 10.5130/ijcre.v10i1.5000

Diener, M. L., Zick, C., McKay, S., Boellinger, J., &  Park, A. (2017). Early Outcomes from Utah’s Hearing-Targeted Cytomegalovirus Screening Program.  Pediatrics, 139(2). Doi: 10.1542/peds.2016-0789

*Diener, M. L., Wright, C., & Brehl, B., & Black, T. (2016).  Socioemotional Correlates of Creative Potential in Preschool Age Children:  Thinking Beyond Student Academic Assessments.  Creativity Research Journal, 128(4, 450-457.  DOI:10.1080/10400419.2016.1229975

*Diener, M. L., Anderson, L. L., Wright, C. A., & Dunn, L. (2016).  Sibling relationships in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the context of everyday life and a strength-based program.  Journal of Child and Family Studies, 24(4), 1060-1072.  DOI: 10.1007/s10826-014-9915-6

*Diener, M., Wright, C., Dunn, L., Wright, D. S., Anderson, L. L., & Smith, K. N. (2016).  A Creative 3D Design Programme:  Building on Interests and Social Engagement for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).  International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 63, 181-200. Doi: 10.1080/1034912X.2015.1053436

Wright, C., Diener, M. L., & Kemp, J. (2016).  Storytelling and Storyacting.  In D. L. Couchenour & K. Chrisman (Eds.), The SAGE Encyclopedia of Contemporary Early Childhood Education. New York: Sage.

Dunn, L., Diener, M., Wright, C., & Wright, D. S. (2015).  The Social Ecology of Vocational Readiness in an Extracurricular Technology Program for Students with Autism. Work:  A Journal of Prevention, Assessment, & Rehabilitation, 52(2) 457-468.  Doi: 10.3233/WOR-152160.

*Diener, M. L., Wright, C., Wright, D.S., & Linnell, L. (2015).  Tapping into Tech Talent:  Using Technology to Facilitate Personal, Social, and Vocational Skills in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In T. Cardon (Ed.), Technology and Treatment of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (p. 97-112).  Series Title:  Autism and Child Psychopathology Series.  Springer.  Doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-20872-5_9

Wright, C. A., Wright, S. D., Diener, M. L., & Eaton, J. (2014).  Autism spectrum disorder and the applied collaborative approach:  A review of community based participatory research and participatory action research.  Journal of Autism.  doi:  10.7243/2054-992X-1-1

*Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., Smith, K. N., & Wright, S. D. (2014).  An Assessment of Visual-Spatial Creativity in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Creativity Research Journal, 26, 328-337.  Doi:10.1080/10400419.2014.929421

Adams, B., Wright, C. Diener, M.L., Wright, S. (2013). The theory of collective memory and the 1953 Short Creek Arizona Polygamous Raid.  Journal of Family History, 38, 443-465.  Doi: 10.1177/0363/19913506988

Diener, M. L. (2013). Parenting. In E. Diener & R. Biswas-Diener (Eds), Noba textbook series: Psychology. Champaign, IL: DEF Publishers. DOI: www.nobaproject.com

*D’Astous, V. A., Wright, S., Wright, C., & Diener, M. (2013).  Grandparents of Grandchildren with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Influences of Engagement.  Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 11 (2), 134-147.  DOI:  10.1080/15350770.2013.782744.

*Wright, C., Diener, M. L., & Kemp, J. L. (2012).  Storytelling dramas as a community building activity in an early childhood classroom.  Early Childhood Education Journal. DOI:  0.1007/s10643-012-0544-7

*Wright, S. D., D’Astous, V., Wright, C. A., Diener, M. (2012).  Grandparents of grandchildren with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):  Strengthening relationships through technology.  The International Journal of Aging and Human Development, 75(2), 169-183.

Diener, M.L., Hobson-Rohrer, W., & Byington, C. L. (2012).  Kindergarten readiness and performance of Latino children participating in Reach Out and Read.  Journal of Community Medicine and Health Education, 2(3), 133 http://dx.doi.org/10.4172/jcmhe.1000133

Wright, C. & Diener, M. L. (2012).  Play, Creativity, and Social-Emotional Development: Weaving the Threads of Influence.  In O. Saracho (Ed.), Contemporary Perspectives on Research in Creativity in Early Childhood Education (p. 271-292). Charlotte, NC:  Information Age Publishing.

*Wright, C., Diener, M. L., Dunn, L., & Wright, S. D., Linnell, L., Newbold,, K., D’Astous, V., & Rafferty, D. (2011).  SketchUpÔ: A Technology Tool to Facilitate Intergenerational Family Relationships for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).  Family and Consumer Studies Research Journal, 40, 135-149. DOI: 10.1111/j.1552-3934.2011.02100.x

Isabella, R., & Diener, M. L. (2010).  Self-representations of social and academic competence:  Contextual correlates in middle childhood.  Journal of Research in Childhood Education, 24, 315-331.   DOI:  10.1080/02568543.2010.510082

Diener, M. L. & Liese, L. H. (Eds.).  (2009). Finding meaning in civically engaged scholarship:  Personal journeys, professional experiences.  Information Age Publishing.   I have two chapters in the book:

*Diener, M. L., Pierroutsakos, S., Troseth, G., & Roberts, A.  (2008).Video vs. reality:  Comparing infants’ manual and affective responses to video and live presentations.  Media Psychology, 11, 418-441.

*Wong, M., Diener, M. L., & Isabella, R. (2008).  Parents’ emotion-related beliefs and behaviors:  Associations with children’s perceptions of peer competence, child grade and sex. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 29, 175-186.

*Diener, M.L., Isabella, R. A., Behunin, M. G., & Wong, M. S. (2008).  Attachment to Mothers and Fathers during Middle Childhood:  Associations with Child Gender, Age, and Competence.  Social Development, 17, 84-101.

Diener, M. L. & McGavran, M. B. (2008).  What makes people happy?  A developmental approach to the literature on family relationships and well-being.  In R. Larsen & M. Eid (Eds.), The Science of Subjective Well-Being.  New York, NY:  Guildford Press.

Schoppe-Sullivan, S., Diener, M., Mangelsdorf, C, Brown, G., McHale, J., & Frosch, C.  (2006). Attachment and sensitivity in family context:  The roles of parent and infant gender.  Infant and Child Development, 15, 367-385.

Kim-Prieto, C., Diener, E., Tamir, M., Scollon, C., & Diener, M. (2005).  Integrating the diverse definitions of happiness:  A time-sequential framework of subjective well-being.  Journal of Happiness Studies, 6, 261-300.

Diener, M. & Lucas, R. (2004).  Desires for children’s emotions across 48 countries:  Associations with Gender, Emotional Experience, Norms for Emotions, and Characteristics of Nations.  Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 35, 525-547.

Diener, M., & Kim, D. Y. (2004).  Maternal and Child Predictors of Children’s Social Competence.  Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 25, 3-24.

*Diener, M., Wright, C., Julian, J., & Byington, C. (2003).  A pediatric literacy education program for low socioeconomic, culturally diverse families.  Journal of Research in Childhood Education, 18, 148-158.

*Diener, M., Nievar, MA., Wright, C. (2003).  Attachment security among mothers and their young children living in poverty:  Associations with maternal, child, and contextual characteristics.  Merrill-Palmer Quarterly, 49, 254-282.

Diener, M., Mangelsdorf, S., McHale, J., & Frosch, C. (2002).  Infants’ behavioral strategies for emotion regulation with fathers and mothers:  Associations with emotional expressions and attachment quality.  Infancy, 5, 151-172.

*Cole, W., Diener, M., Wright, C., & Gaynard, L. (2001).  Health care professionals’ perceptions of child life specialists.  Children’s Health Care, 30, 1-15.

Diener, M. (2000). Gift from the gods: A Balinese guide to early child rearing. In J. DeLoache & A. Gottlieb (Eds.), A World of Babies: Imagined Childcare Guides for Seven Societies (p. 91-116).  Cambridge University Press.  Lifetime new units sold paperback 13,117.

Mangelsdorf, C., McHale, J., Diener, M., Goldstein, L., & Lehn, L. (2000).  Infant attachment:  Contributions of infant temperament and maternal characteristics.  Infant Behavior and Development, 23, 175-196.

*Wright, C., Diener, M., & Kay, S. (2000).  School readiness of low-income children at risk for school failure.  Journal of Children and Poverty, 6, 99-117.

Diener, M. & Mangelsdorf, S. (1999).  Behavioral Strategies for Emotion Regulation in Toddlers:  Associations with Maternal Involvement and Emotional Expressions. Infant Behavior and Development, 22, 569-583.

Contreras, J., Mangelsdorf, S., Rhodes, J., Diener, M., & Brunson, L. (1999).  Parent-child interaction among Latina Adolescent Mothers:  The Role of Family and Social Support. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 9, 417-439.

Goldstein, L. H., Diener, M. L., & Mangelsdorf, S. C. (1996). Maternal characteristics and social support across the transition to motherhood: Associations with maternal behavior. Journal of Family Psychology, 10, 60-71.

Diener, M., Goldstein, L. H., & Mangelsdorf, S. (1995). The role of prenatal expectations in parental reports of infant temperament. Merrill-Palmer Quarterly, 41, 172-190.

Diener, E., & Diener, M. (1995). Cross-cultural correlates of life satisfaction. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 68, 653-663. 5-year impact factor 6.901  Also reprinted in P. B. Smith & D. L. Best (Eds.), Cross-Cultural Psychology. (2009).  London:  Sage Publications.

Diener, E., Diener, M., & Diener, C. (1995). Factors predicting the subjective well-being of nations. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 69, 851-864.

Diener, E., Sandvik, E., Seidlitz, L., Diener, M. (1993). The relationship between income and subjective well-being: Relative or absolute? Social Indicators Research, 28, 195-223.

Kirby, A. V., Feldman, K. J. C., Himle, M. B., Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., & Hoffman, J. M. (accepted, 2020). Pilot test of the Maximizing Adolescent Post-Secondary Success (MAPSS) intervention: Supporting parents of autistic youth. American Journal of Occupational Therapy. Special issue on Neurodiversity.

Warren, N., Eatchel, B., Kirby, A. V., Wright, C., D’Astous, V., Diener, M. (accepted, 2020).  Parent-Identified Strengths of Autistic Youth.  Autism.

Kirby, AV, Cottle Feldman, KJ, Hoffman, JM, Diener, ML, Himle MB. (accepted, 2020). Transition preparation activities and expectations for the transition to adulthood among parents of autistic youth.  Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Kirby, A., Diener, M. L., Adkins, D., Wright, C. A. (accepted, 2020).  Transition Preparation Activities among Families of Youth on the Autism Spectrum:  Preliminary Study using Repeated Time Points Across a School Year.  Plos One.

Diener, M. L. & Wright, C. (2020).  Advancing Participatory Oriented Research in Research Intensive Universities:  A Case Study of Community Collaboration for Students with Autism.  Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement.

Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., Taylor, C., (2020). Insider insights into autism and employment:  Toward a better “fit” in the workplace.  Work: A Journal of Prevention, Assessment, and Rehabilitation.

Diener, ML, Shi, K & Park, A. (2020). A Cross-Sectional Study of Caregiver Perceptions of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection:  Knowledge and Attitudes about Screening.  Journal of Pediatrics, 218, 151-156. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.12.005.

* Diener, M. L., & Swedin, M. N. (2019).  Parenting Stress.  Book chapter in The Encyclopedia of Child and Adolescent Development, Eds S. Hupp and J. Jewell, John Wiley: New York. DOI: 10.1002/9781119171492wecad00206

*Diener, M. L., & Groneman, A. (2019).  Siblings with Disabilities.  Book chapter in The Encyclopedia of Child and Adolescent Development, Eds S. Huppand J. Jewell, John Wiley: New York. DOI: 10.1002/9781119171492wecad00217

*Diener, ML, Lofgren, AO, Isabella, R, Magana, S. N., Choi, C, & Gourley, C. (2019). Children’s Distress during Intravenous Placement:  The Role of Child Life Specialists.  Children’s Health Care, 48, 103-119. Doi:10.1080/02739615.2018.1492410

-received the 2019 Association of Child Life Professionals Research Recognition Award

Kirby, A. V., Schneider, M., Diener, M. L., Henderson, J. (2019).  Who is Going to Pay for the Wi-Fi?  Exploring Adulthood from the Perspectives of Autistic Youth.  Autism in Adulthood:  Knowledge, Practice, & Policy, 1(1), 37-43. Doi:10.1089/aut.2018.0008

Wright, C.A., Diener, M.L., *Rafferty, D. *Taylor, C., & Wright, S.D. (2019). Peer Teachers with autism teaching 3D modeling. International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 66, 438-453. Doi:10.1080/1034912X.2018.1540770

*Diener, ML & Kirby, A, Canary, H, Sumison, F, Green, M (2018). Community Reintegration Following Pediatric Acquired Brain Injury: Perspectives of Providers and Families. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation. Vol. 33, E97. 

*Diener, M. L., Choi, C., Isabella, R., & Lofgren, A. (2017).  Medical Professionals’ Perceptions of the Use of Treatment Rooms.  Children’s Health Care. DOI:10.1080/02739615.2015.1124774

*Wright, C.A., Wright, S.D., Diener, M.L., Rafferty, D., & Sampson, A. (2017). Leveraging 3D Technology for Students with Autism:  An Innovative University-Community Collaboration for Skill Development and Vocational Exploration.  Gateways: International Journal of Community Research and Engagement, 10(1), pp. 265-282.  Doi: 10.5130/ijcre.v10i1.5000

Diener, M. L., Zick, C., McKay, S., Boellinger, J., &  Park, A. (2017). Early Outcomes from Utah’s Hearing-Targeted Cytomegalovirus Screening Program.  Pediatrics, 139(2). Doi: 10.1542/peds.2016-0789

*Diener, M. L., Wright, C., & Brehl, B., & Black, T. (2016).  Socioemotional Correlates of Creative Potential in Preschool Age Children:  Thinking Beyond Student Academic Assessments.  Creativity Research Journal, 128(4, 450-457.  DOI:10.1080/10400419.2016.1229975

*Diener, M. L., Anderson, L. L., Wright, C. A., & Dunn, L. (2016).  Sibling relationships in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the context of everyday life and a strength-based program.  Journal of Child and Family Studies, 24(4), 1060-1072.  DOI: 10.1007/s10826-014-9915-6

*Diener, M., Wright, C., Dunn, L., Wright, D. S., Anderson, L. L., & Smith, K. N. (2016).  A Creative 3D Design Programme:  Building on Interests and Social Engagement for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).  International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 63, 181-200. Doi: 10.1080/1034912X.2015.1053436

Wright, C., Diener, M. L., & Kemp, J. (2016).  Storytelling and Storyacting.  In D. L. Couchenour & K. Chrisman (Eds.), The SAGE Encyclopedia of Contemporary Early Childhood Education. New York: Sage.

Dunn, L., Diener, M., Wright, C., & Wright, D. S. (2015).  The Social Ecology of Vocational Readiness in an Extracurricular Technology Program for Students with Autism. Work:  A Journal of Prevention, Assessment, & Rehabilitation, 52(2) 457-468.  Doi: 10.3233/WOR-152160.

*Diener, M. L., Wright, C., Wright, D.S., & Linnell, L. (2015).  Tapping into Tech Talent:  Using Technology to Facilitate Personal, Social, and Vocational Skills in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In T. Cardon (Ed.), Technology and Treatment of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (p. 97-112).  Series Title:  Autism and Child Psychopathology Series.  Springer.  Doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-20872-5_9

Wright, C. A., Wright, S. D., Diener, M. L., & Eaton, J. (2014).  Autism spectrum disorder and the applied collaborative approach:  A review of community based participatory research and participatory action research.  Journal of Autism.  doi:  10.7243/2054-992X-1-1

*Diener, M. L., Wright, C. A., Smith, K. N., & Wright, S. D. (2014).  An Assessment of Visual-Spatial Creativity in Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Creativity Research Journal, 26, 328-337.  Doi:10.1080/10400419.2014.929421

Adams, B., Wright, C. Diener, M.L., Wright, S. (2013). The theory of collective memory and the 1953 Short Creek Arizona Polygamous Raid.  Journal of Family History, 38, 443-465.  Doi: 10.1177/0363/19913506988

Diener, M. L. (2013). Parenting. In E. Diener & R. Biswas-Diener (Eds), Noba textbook series: Psychology. Champaign, IL: DEF Publishers. DOI: www.nobaproject.com

*D’Astous, V. A., Wright, S., Wright, C., & Diener, M. (2013).  Grandparents of Grandchildren with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Influences of Engagement.  Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 11 (2), 134-147.  DOI:  10.1080/15350770.2013.782744.

*Wright, C., Diener, M. L., & Kemp, J. L. (2012).  Storytelling dramas as a community building activity in an early childhood classroom.  Early Childhood Education Journal. DOI:  0.1007/s10643-012-0544-7

*Wright, S. D., D’Astous, V., Wright, C. A., Diener, M. (2012).  Grandparents of grandchildren with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD):  Strengthening relationships through technology.  The International Journal of Aging and Human Development, 75(2), 169-183.

Diener, M.L., Hobson-Rohrer, W., & Byington, C. L. (2012).  Kindergarten readiness and performance of Latino children participating in Reach Out and Read.  Journal of Community Medicine and Health Education, 2(3), 133 http://dx.doi.org/10.4172/jcmhe.1000133

Wright, C. & Diener, M. L. (2012).  Play, Creativity, and Social-Emotional Development: Weaving the Threads of Influence.  In O. Saracho (Ed.), Contemporary Perspectives on Research in Creativity in Early Childhood Education (p. 271-292). Charlotte, NC:  Information Age Publishing.

*Wright, C., Diener, M. L., Dunn, L., & Wright, S. D., Linnell, L., Newbold,, K., D’Astous, V., & Rafferty, D. (2011).  SketchUpÔ: A Technology Tool to Facilitate Intergenerational Family Relationships for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).  Family and Consumer Studies Research Journal, 40, 135-149. DOI: 10.1111/j.1552-3934.2011.02100.x

Isabella, R., & Diener, M. L. (2010).  Self-representations of social and academic competence:  Contextual correlates in middle childhood.  Journal of Research in Childhood Education, 24, 315-331.   DOI:  10.1080/02568543.2010.510082

Diener, M. L. & Liese, L. H. (Eds.).  (2009). Finding meaning in civically engaged scholarship:  Personal journeys, professional experiences.  Information Age Publishing.   I have two chapters in the book:

Diener, M. L. Reflections on the Search for Meaning in Academia.

Diener, M. L. Children’s Development in Context:  Understanding through Service-Learning.

*Diener, M. L., Pierroutsakos, S., Troseth, G., & Roberts, A.  (2008).Video vs. reality:  Comparing infants’ manual and affective responses to video and live presentations.  Media Psychology, 11, 418-441.

*Wong, M., Diener, M. L., & Isabella, R. (2008).  Parents’ emotion-related beliefs and behaviors:  Associations with children’s perceptions of peer competence, child grade and sex. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 29, 175-186.

*Diener, M.L., Isabella, R. A., Behunin, M. G., & Wong, M. S. (2008).  Attachment to Mothers and Fathers during Middle Childhood:  Associations with Child Gender, Age, and Competence.  Social Development, 17, 84-101.

Diener, M. L. & McGavran, M. B. (2008).  What makes people happy?  A developmental approach to the literature on family relationships and well-being.  In R. Larsen & M. Eid (Eds.), The Science of Subjective Well-Being.  New York, NY:  Guildford Press.

Schoppe-Sullivan, S., Diener, M., Mangelsdorf, C, Brown, G., McHale, J., & Frosch, C.  (2006). Attachment and sensitivity in family context:  The roles of parent and infant gender.  Infant and Child Development, 15, 367-385.

Kim-Prieto, C., Diener, E., Tamir, M., Scollon, C., & Diener, M. (2005).  Integrating the diverse definitions of happiness:  A time-sequential framework of subjective well-being.  Journal of Happiness Studies, 6, 261-300.

Diener, M. & Lucas, R. (2004).  Desires for children’s emotions across 48 countries:  Associations with Gender, Emotional Experience, Norms for Emotions, and Characteristics of Nations.  Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 35, 525-547.

Diener, M., & Kim, D. Y. (2004).  Maternal and Child Predictors of Children’s Social Competence.  Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 25, 3-24.

*Diener, M., Wright, C., Julian, J., & Byington, C. (2003).  A pediatric literacy education program for low socioeconomic, culturally diverse families.  Journal of Research in Childhood Education, 18, 148-158.

*Diener, M., Nievar, MA., Wright, C. (2003).  Attachment security among mothers and their young children living in poverty:  Associations with maternal, child, and contextual characteristics.  Merrill-Palmer Quarterly, 49, 254-282.

Diener, M., Mangelsdorf, S., McHale, J., & Frosch, C. (2002).  Infants’ behavioral strategies for emotion regulation with fathers and mothers:  Associations with emotional expressions and attachment quality.  Infancy, 5, 151-172.

*Cole, W., Diener, M., Wright, C., & Gaynard, L. (2001).  Health care professionals’ perceptions of child life specialists.  Children’s Health Care, 30, 1-15.

Diener, M. (2000). Gift from the gods: A Balinese guide to early child rearing. In J. DeLoache & A. Gottlieb (Eds.), A World of Babies: Imagined Childcare Guides for Seven Societies (p. 91-116).  Cambridge University Press.  Lifetime new units sold paperback 13,117.

Mangelsdorf, C., McHale, J., Diener, M., Goldstein, L., & Lehn, L. (2000).  Infant attachment:  Contributions of infant temperament and maternal characteristics.  Infant Behavior and Development, 23, 175-196.

*Wright, C., Diener, M., & Kay, S. (2000).  School readiness of low-income children at risk for school failure.  Journal of Children and Poverty, 6, 99-117.

Diener, M. & Mangelsdorf, S. (1999).  Behavioral Strategies for Emotion Regulation in Toddlers:  Associations with Maternal Involvement and Emotional Expressions. Infant Behavior and Development, 22, 569-583.

Contreras, J., Mangelsdorf, S., Rhodes, J., Diener, M., & Brunson, L. (1999).  Parent-child interaction among Latina Adolescent Mothers:  The Role of Family and Social Support. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 9, 417-439.

Goldstein, L. H., Diener, M. L., & Mangelsdorf, S. C. (1996). Maternal characteristics and social support across the transition to motherhood: Associations with maternal behavior. Journal of Family Psychology, 10, 60-71.

Diener, M., Goldstein, L. H., & Mangelsdorf, S. (1995). The role of prenatal expectations in parental reports of infant temperament. Merrill-Palmer Quarterly, 41, 172-190.

Diener, E., & Diener, M. (1995). Cross-cultural correlates of life satisfaction. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 68, 653-663. 5-year impact factor 6.901  Also reprinted in P. B. Smith & D. L. Best (Eds.), Cross-Cultural Psychology. (2009).  London:  Sage Publications.

Diener, E., Diener, M., & Diener, C. (1995). Factors predicting the subjective well-being of nations. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 69, 851-864.

Diener, E., Sandvik, E., Seidlitz, L., Diener, M. (1993). The relationship between income and subjective well-being: Relative or absolute? Social Indicators Research, 28, 195-223.