Research in HDFS

The faculty in HDFS are inspired by a focus on improving the human condition.  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. Interesting faculty research going on now is:  

  • Mindfulness training for teachers, parents and young children
  • Testing sensors to understand how children with neurodevelopmental conditions communicate
  • Resiliency pathways in racially diverse young adults
  • Sexuality and relationship development in adolescents and young adults
  • Reducing stress in military families

Our research foci align with national and international thematic priorities set by leading agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and World Health Organization. Our faculty are funded by the Administration for Children and Families, the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Science Foundation, and the Institute of Education Sciences.