BS, University of Florida. MA, PhD, Graduate Center of the City University of New York. Manning’s general research interests are in parent–child dynamics over the lifespan; her specific interests are in social, emotional, and cognitive development. She also has a background in attachment theory. Manning’s current work looks at the quality of parent–child relationships in older parents and their adult-aged children. She is currently a guest faculty member at Sarah Lawrence College and an assistant professor at Manhattanville College. SLC, 2022–
Undergraduate Courses 2022-2023
Psychology
Human Development: Conception Through Middle Childhood
Open, Seminar—Fall
This course will expose students to the field of developmental psychology with a focus on conception through middle childhood (about 11 years old). Throughout the course, we will discuss how different areas of psychology approach and explain influences on human development. We will begin by describing what makes developmental psychology and research a unique area of study. Then we will delve into human development, covering conception, prenatal development, birth and the newborn, toddlerhood (up to three years), early childhood (three-to-six years) and middle childhood (seven to 11 years). Topics covered will include physical and brain development, cognitive and language development, relationships with parents and family, children’s growing sense of self and identity, relationships with peers, and the experiences of children in the United States' with alternative care and education. Direct experience with children will be an integral part of this course, including fieldwork at the Early Childhood Center or other venues. Written observational diaries will be used as a way of integrating those direct experiences with seminar topics.
Faculty
Studies in Attachment
Intermediate, Seminar—Spring
Prerequisite: prior college-level psychology course required
This course is designed to introduce students to the study of attachment relationships in childhood. Bonds between children and their caregivers play a central role in children’s development. Research over several decades has provided evidence of the importance of studying attachment relationships and how they correlate with various aspects of development, including mental health, social competence, and emotional well-being. Students in this course will become familiar with this research, as well as research related to attachment theory and antecedents of attachment. Conference projects may be either an independent exploration of an attachment-related topic or fieldwork at the Early Childhood Center.