My name is Han-Yun Tseng, and I go by Heidi. I am a fifth-year PhD, student in the Applied Developmental Science program at Colorado State University (CSU). Born and raised in Taiwan, my childhood dream of becoming a dancer and traveling the world with a dance troupe sparked my love for exploration. This passion for travel and exposure to diverse cultures has inspired me to pursue a career in research, where I can also study and travel internationally to contribute to the global scientific community.
My research focuses on views of aging, subjective well-being, and promoting healthy aging throughout adulthood. I have advanced quantitative and statistical skills for analyzing longitudinal and experimental datasets from Taiwan, Germany, and the United States, addressing questions about adult development and aging. Substantively, I am particularly interested in the "well-being paradox of aging," where older adults maintain high levels of subjective well-being despite experiencing losses and declines. Guided by lifespan theoretical propositions, my doctoral research investigates the maintenance of subjective well-being in old age, the influence of positive views of aging on well-being, and the potential of behavioral interventions to improve negative views of aging and enhance developmental outcomes in the second half of life.
My dissertation work aims to lay the foundation for a future research program that empowers individuals to optimize their aging process. Prior to my PhD program, I worked as a research assistant in a longitudinal study on healthy aging in a health research institute in Taiwan. Throughout my time at CSU, I have had the privilege of collaborating with Manfred Diehl, PhD, a University Distinguished Professor and expert in psychosocial aging. My ultimate goal is to become an independent investigator in the field of aging and health, contributing to interdisciplinary research collaborations and promoting healthy and optimal aging across the adult lifespan.
Being a student member of Division 20 has provided me with valuable opportunities to connect with experts, scholars, and practitioners who share a common interest in adult development and aging. Through Division 20, I have been able to attend conferences, workshops, and webinars that have expanded my knowledge base and allowed me to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field. Access to specialized journals and newsletters has allowed me to stay informed about recent studies, theoretical frameworks, and evidence-based practices in the field of adult development. These information, events, and opportunities have not only exposed me to cutting-edge research but have also given me the chance to network with other students and professionals. I am grateful for the contributions of Division 20 in shaping my research trajectory and helping me connect with fellow professionals who share the passion for studying and promoting healthy aging.