Colleen Tolan

Classrooms abound long after formal education ends. Unfortunately, most of life does not make space for fruitful debate, innovative ideas, or liberating thought. Whether I am teaching in a university or sitting in a coffee shop, I see every conversation as an opportunity to learn.

My research interests are wide-sweeping but find focus around interpersonal communication as it relates to decision making and constructive conflict. My research tends to be quantitative and cross-disciplinary, drawing upon social and cognitive psychology as well as behavioral economics and media studies.

Conflict in life is unavoidable, but not all conflict has to be destructive. Learning simple tools and highly effective communication strategies to navigate tough situations can help to reduce stress and strengthen your relationships.