Niva Machanda

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Contact Info

Biography —

I’m currently a third-year PhD student in the Social Psychology program, focusing on studying ambivalence—the simultaneous experience of both positive and negative feelings towards a romantic partner—and its effects on relationship outcomes, particularly commitment and breakup decision-making. Outside of academia, I love spending time outdoors, playing tennis, and exploring delicious food!

Education —

B.S. in Psychology, University of California, 2021, Riverside
Honors
M.A. in Social Psychology, University of Kansas, 2025, Lawrence

Research —

Posters:

Manchanda, N., & Gillath, O. (2025, February). Implicit Ambivalence and its impact on Romantic Relationship Outcomes. Poster presented at the 2025 SPSP Conference, Denver, Colorado.

Manchanda, N., Esther, K., Gillath, O. (2024). Effects of Brief Facial Cues on First Impressions of Attractiveness. Poster presented at the International Association for Relationship Research (IARR). Boston, MA.

Manchanda, N., Esther, K., Gillath, O. (2024). Effects of Brief Facial Cues on First Impressions of Attractiveness. Poster presented at Symposium for Undergraduate Psychology Engagement and Research (S.U.P.E.R). Lawrence, KS.

Manchanda, N., Gillath, O. (2024). Exploring Ambivalence in Relationships and its Impact on Relationship Outcomes. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Personality and Social Psychologists (SPSP). San Diego, CA.

Manda S., Syed Muhammad, O., Manchanda, N., Adams, G. (2023). Implications of Indians and Americans’ Perception of Choice on Arranged Marriage. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the Society for Personality and Social Psychologists (SPSP). Atlanta, GA.