Research

We study the factors that place children and families at risk for emotional, behavioral, and relational difficulties, as well as the strengths and resources that promote resilience and positive adaptation.

Areas of focus

• Separation and divorce
• Family court involvement
• Child coping and resilience
• Parenting and family relationships
• Bereavement and family loss
• Parental incarceration
• Youth mental health
• Prevention and intervention science
• Community-engaged research

Current projects

Project Brain Team

Project Brain Team uses online games for children ages 9–12 who are experiencing parental conflict due to separation or divorce. In a randomized clinical trial, we test whether the games help improve children’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses to conflict. Supported by the National Institute of Mental Health; details are available on clinicaltrials.gov.

Project PEACE

Project PEACE develops online modules that teach parents strategies to help their children cope with conflict following separation or divorce. The program is in development with support from the Institute for Mental Health Research, with clinical trials planned to evaluate its effectiveness.

Our approach

We use evidence-based methods to design, refine, and test interventions that support children and families navigating stressful life events. Our team collaborates with stakeholders at every step, ensuring that programs are practical, accessible, and responsive to the needs of diverse communities. We prioritize approaches that can be implemented in real-world settings, such as courts, schools, and community agencies.