Dr. Appling uses qualitative research methods, particularly phenomenology, heuristic inquiry, ethnography, and narrative. Using a social justice lens (specifically Critical Race Theory, Relational Cultural Theory, and Womanism), she examines:
* African American motherhood in academia from both a student and faculty perspective
* Racial identity development and the underachievement of African American adolescent males
* The experiences of gifted African American adolescent males
* School counselor collaboration to enhance student success in K-12 settings
