Kristina Lopez
Social Work Associate Professor
In her research, Kristina Lopez explores disparities in early diagnosis and subsequent intervention services among underserved children and families including low-income, limited-education and racial/ethnic minorities with a specialization in Latinx children with autism and other complex health care needs. She focuses on the impact of developmental disabilities and complex health care needs among children on family systems across racial and ethnic groups and socioeconomic levels. Her research is grounded in a multidisciplinary framework in which she incorporates developmental psychology, social work and public health disciplines, disability critical race theory and LatCrit to investigate disparities, ecological and socio-cultural perspectives of family support, developmental disabilities and early intervention.
Education
Ph.D. Social Work and Psychology, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 2013
M.S. Developmental Psychology, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 2012
M.S.W. Interpersonal Practice, Children and Youth in Families and Society, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 2010
M.A. General Experimental Psychology (with Distinction), California State University Northridge 2007
B.A. Psychology (Magna Cum Laude), California State University Northridge 2005
Web Site:
Phoenix, AZ
Video Sample
This expert has been featured on:
The Arizona Republic
Suggested Interview Topics:
Disparities in Autism Diagnosis | Programs Supporting Latinx Families Navigate Austism | Health Inequities
Suggested Interview Questions:
- Your research highlights the delays in autism diagnosis for Latinx children. What are the primary barriers these families face, and how can they be addressed?
- How does your "Parents Taking Action" program work to bridge the gap in autism services for Latino families, and what impact has it had so far?
- You’ve discussed the importance of culturally informed care in addressing disparities in healthcare. How can service providers better incorporate cultural humility and anti-racism practices into their work?
- What role do you see social workers playing in improving autism care for underserved communities, and what changes would you recommend in social work education to better prepare them?
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