Jennifer Shapka

Jennifer Shapka is a Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of British Columbia, affiliated with the Department of Educational & Counselling Psychology, and Special Education. Her research focuses on adolescent development in the context of evolving digital technologies, particularly examining cyberbullying, online privacy, and self-regulation.

• Academic Rank: Professor
• Department: Educational & Counselling Psychology, and Special Education
• Research Themes: Cyberbullying, Adolescent Technology Engagement, Social-Emotional Development

Dr. Shapka's work explores how adolescents navigate the risks and opportunities of growing up in the information age. Her studies investigate the impact of internet use on social and cognitive development, with a focus on cyberbullying, privacy concerns, and smartphone dependency. She employs longitudinal analyses and cross-cultural comparisons to understand developmental trajectories.

Her recent publications highlight trends in problematic smartphone use, cybervictimization, and the role of attachment theory in digital interactions. These studies span contexts including Canada, China, and Tanzania, emphasizing global relevance.

• 2015: Killam Award for Excellence in Mentoring

Dr. Shapka supervises graduate students in the Human Development, Learning, and Culture program. Her collaborations with researchers like Nancy Perry and Shelley Wisniewski have produced significant insights into adolescent mental health and educational practices.