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My professorship is titled:
Educational Science with a specialization in Special Educational Needs (Diagnostics and Counselling) (Faculty II)

This is what my research is about:
Psychosocial difficulties among children and young people are steadily increasing, which often puts teachers under strain and places excessive demands on the education system. My work lies at the intersection of developmental psychology and special educational needs and disabilities; consequently, our focus lies in developing emotional, social, and learning skills, as well as the full range of educational practices, with a particular focus on children with learning and behavioral difficulties.

That’s what fascinates me most about my field of research:
An exploration of human behavior! To understand behavioral issues and their diverse causes, it is essential to engage with oneself — one's own emotions, educational relationships, how these are institutionalized, and the social frameworks that shape them. This process of self-reflection continually reveals new insights.

Why I chose to come back to the University of Siegen:
I completed my PhD here and have known the University of Siegen for a long time, so it feels a bit like coming home. What I particularly like is how closely linked the special education content is to mainstream teaching, giving students the opportunity to prepare for their careers in such a comprehensive way.

My most interesting previous career stations were:

• University of Ulm, Institute of Epidemiology
• University of Cologne, Department of Special Educational Needs
• University Hospital Cologne, Clinic and Outpatient Clinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy
• University of Siegen: Professorship for Developmental Science and Special Education (Inclusion).
• University of Wuppertal: Acting Professorship of Psychology, focusing on neurocognitive development and behavioral regulation
• University of Paderborn: Professorship of Special Educational Needs and Inclusion in Schools, focusing on emotional and social development

That’s what students learn in my courses, e.g.:
Reflecting on our own behavior and how we shape relationships can bring together different perspectives on children’s development and support. Students also learn to form their own opinions and engage in discussion..

In my free time I love: 
Spending time with my family, listening to music and watching live performances. And art.