Over the past two decades, Armando Pina's scientific curiosity has evolved from exposure to his students, scientific mentors, and community partners. Recently, he has been collaborating with school administrators and individuals who deliver social and emotional learning (SEL) curriculum to elementary school youth. Because of these collective experiences, Pina's interests have shifted from working in the laboratory to working in the “real-world”. He is interested in child anxiety research but also in the study of children's courage. He feels that by taking a strength-based approach, that is positive and valued, his research can better serve community organizations, like schools and providers working with children, adolescents, and caregivers. Pina is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology and joined ASU in 2005.