Education
- Ph.D. 2017 – Virginia Tech, Human Development (Concentration: MFT)
- M.A. 2013 – Hofstra University, Marriage & Family Therapy
- B.A. 2006 – Indiana University, Gender Studies
Areas of Expertise
- Couple & Family Therapy
- Human Sexuality & Sex Therapy
- Online Dating & Behavior
- Family Systems Theories
Background
Prior to joining the faculty in 2019, Riger taught in marriage and family therapy (MFT) graduate programs and worked as a consultant in the anti-money laundering (AML) field.
Currently, Riger teaches in the Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) undergraduate program and the school counseling graduate program in the school of education. She received her master’s and doctoral degrees in MFT and uses her clinical background to help students make practical connections between course content and direct work with individuals, couples, and families.
Research
Riger’s research has primarily focused on the role that technology plays in couples and families’ lives. She has explored the effects of technology on romantic relationships, technology-assisted interventions used by MFTs, and teletherapy for couples and families. Her current research focuses on online dating/dating apps and factors that influence stigma-based behaviors.