Dr. April Gile Thomas is a developmental psychologist and Assistant Professor in the area of Legal Psychology. Her expertise centers on adolescent development, particularly as it pertains to risk-taking and juvenile delinquency. Her research examines causes and consequences of both normative and atypical risk behavior during adolescence. Through her research, Dr. Thomas seeks to use developmental science to inform public policy regarding how youth should be treated in the justice system. Her current work investigates the effects of juvenile incarceration and probation on adolescents' social development and sleep habits.