Research Themes

The Connect Lab is committed to fostering the health and well-being of today's youth through engaging in research that provides evidence-based supports and strategies to help key people in young people's lives—teachers, coaches, after school program counselors—be at their best. We believe that great things happen when we support those who work most closely with youth.

Adolescent health

Adolescent health is of particular interest to our research lab, given that insufficient physical activity has been identified as a national health threat. We believe that youth should be afforded the opportunity and climate to lead happy, healthy lives.

mindfulness

Social-emotional and psychological well-being are critical to leading a happy, productive life. We believe that mindfulness can be developed and strengthened through specific, intentional practices that contribute to improved quality of life.

Girls in sport

Our work with the Women’s Sports Foundation emphasizes the role that coaches have in forming positive relationships that get and keep girls involved in sports.

Character Virtues

Character virtues are critical to fulfilling one’s potential. Virtues include hard work, self-control, emotion regulation, prosocial behavior, and cooperative behavior.

Current Research Projects

Check out our Current Projects to see how we are integrating these research interests into scientific study.