Research

🧪 Research at Signal Appalachia

We apply research to real-world problems—especially around risk, crisis communication, and behavioral response.

Our work focuses on how people make decisions in uncertain or high-pressure situations, and how tone, trust, and design affect those decisions. We’re especially interested in underrepresented populations, rural communities, and high-risk sectors like IT and emergency management.

Current Areas of Focus

🧠 Stigma in Cybersecurity Messaging
How shame-based internal messages discourage users from reporting security incidents.

Outcome: Building message audits and training tools that help teams reduce internal risk without fear tactics.

📣 Crisis Communication in Rural Regions
Testing how people respond to emergency messaging—especially in the context of climate events and infrastructure breakdowns.

Model: IDEA Model (Internalization, Distribution, Explanation, Action)
Outcome: Practical templates and message structures for public agencies and nonprofits.

📊 Behavioral Finance and Emotional Safety
Exploring how reliable monthly income (like from dividend ETFs) affects household decision-making under stress.

Outcome: Financial tools and trackers that support confidence and self-reliance.

Research Principles We Follow

• Use data, but design for people
  
  

• Reduce complexity, not accuracy
  
  

• Test in real contexts, not just labs
  
  

Interested in Collaborating?

We're open to:

• Research partnerships
  
  

• Applied study opportunities
  
  

• Faculty co-authorships or committee service
  
  

• Organizational consulting
  
  

📧 info@signalappalachia.org