About Human Development and Family Studies

Amy E. Bonomi, Chairperson

The Department of Human Development and Family Studies is known for its excellence in applied, translational research that includes an emphasis on diversity. We are leaders in developmental, prevention and intervention research crossing children, adolescents, families and at-risk, marginalized populations.  We use state-of-the-art methods in our work and are training the next generation of scholars in these methods.

Our applied scholarship focus means our research is designed to make a real difference in the lives of children, families and at risk populations.  This includes designing interventions and programs that result in positive impacts across the lifespan. When people refer to “making a difference in the world,” our department is among the leaders in this endeavor. Instead of running from troubled regions and problems in the lives of individuals and families, we are running toward them with commitment and concentration on social justice and the goal to revitalize and rebuild.

Areas of study include:

• Child Development
• Youth Development
• Lifespan Human Development and Family Diversity
• Couple and Family Therapy