Over the course of my career, I have focused on developmental factors related to psychological health and well being, particularly as they relate to the transition of adolescence. How do teens develop a healthy sense of self, the capacity for self-reflection and self-determination, the confidence and skill to navigate secure and intimate close relationships? Why are some at risk for psychopathology and poor social adjustment? How do social relationships, social-cognitive and emotional development moderate the impact of adversity? What can we do to better support teens at-risk and ensure the best outcomes possible? These questions have been foremost in determining the studies I have undertaken with my students, colleagues and community partners. Knowledge translation is a priority in research on child and youth mental health – and we welcome active partnerships with our community and government stakeholders to better serve youth and their families.

My current research program concentrates on:
1. The etiology, developmental course and health consequences of exposure to victimization and involvement in violence;
2. The unique factors and needs related to cultural and social marginalization that place young women at risk for poor health outcomes;
3. The development of effective intervention and the promotion of community capacity to reduce risk and promote health and well-being;
4. The development of an international collaborative team to study risk, resilience, prevention and intervention related to gender, sex, victimization and violence.  

My Curriculum Vitae