Past Research

Adolescent Emotional Well-being

The Adolescent Emotional Well-being study aimed to address the gaps in the assessment of emotional well-being (EWB) in adolescents. Adolescent stress rates have increased in the past few years, and this study examined the patterns of EWB and other factors. This study improved preventive methods for adolescents to overcome stress and reduce stressors.

Be CALM Connections

The Be CALM Connections (BCC) study, in collaboration with Child Trends, delivered a mindfulness-based self-regulation program to adolescents to promote healthy relationship skills. Implemented in rural NC high schools, the BCC study explored how the program impacts adolescents’ outcomes regarding their interpersonal mindfulness skills, emotion regulation, and emotional well-being. Additionally, this study evaluated the implementation of the Be CALM program for teacher and student participants. For more information regarding the Be CALM program, please visit: https://www.becalmprogram.com/

Ready to Learn Through Relationships

Ready to Learn Through Relationships (RLR) was an outcomes innovation project through the Head Start National Center on Health, Behavioral Health, and Safety (NCHBHS), and in collaboration with the Center for Childhood Resilience at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, evaluating a trauma-informed professional development program for Head Start teachers. We explored what kind of training and technical assistance is needed for teachers to change their classroom environments and social-emotional teaching practices to promote wellbeing in young children exposed to trauma.