Amber M. Ingram, Ph.D.

Amber M. Ingram, Ph.D., is a developmental psychologist who joined Mercer University in fall 2022. She earned her Ph.D. in experimental psychology with a focus on developmental science and a minor in statistics. Her work centers on understanding the social and relational experiences that shape development, particularly during adolescence.

Education

• Ph.D., Developmental Psychology (minor in Statistics), The University of Alabama
• M.A., Developmental Psychology, The University of Alabama
• B.A. Psychology, The University of Alabama

Specialty

Developmental psychology

Professional Interests

Ingram’s research examines how contextual and relational factors shape adolescent decision-making and behavioral outcomes. Her work explores how social-cognitive processes, attention patterns, and perceptions of relational threat influence friendship jealousy. Her lab integrates experimental and applied methods, including eye-tracking technology, to examine attentional processes, risk processing, and mechanisms underlying behavior.

She is the founder of Bear Bridge, a summer initiative supporting teens in foster care by promoting connection, stability and access to resources as they transition to adulthood. She also leads Traffick Jam, a college-level service-learning course that educates adolescents about risk factors and warning signs of child sex trafficking while preparing university students to engage in prevention-focused community outreach.

Other Interests

Outside of work, Ingram enjoys reading and spending time with her pets, Hank and Lydia. She is also a self-proclaimed Mountain Dew fanatic.

Contact Amber M. Ingram, Ph.D.

478-301-2973
ingram_am@mercer.edu
Office: Willet Science Center, Room 126