Poverty, Social Networks, and Childhood Obesity – Study explores cultural meanings and social motivations associated with food that influence families’ consumption decisions and other obesity-related health behaviors and outcomes. A central aim is to investigate how race and social class shape social networks and behavioral and body norms in ways that create obesogenic peer and family environments for children.
Indianapolis Network Mental Health Study – Research examines social network structure, function, and dynamics following first entry into mental health treatment. Other work focuses on understanding which ties are activated to provide support for people experiencing a mental health crisis and why.
Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism – Projects investigate gene x environment interactions in pathways to alcohol dependence and youth conduct disorder, with an emphasis on the stress process, family and peer interactions, and the social safety net.
Black Women in a Study of Epidemics – Research explores the impact of gendered racism on African American women, identifying cultural and social network factors that mediate or moderate the effects of racism and sexism on outcomes such as drug abuse, suicidality, and chronic illness.
Translating Research to Youth through Information Technology – This longitudinal study assesses the effects of an intervention to improve science knowledge, interest, and attitudes among middle school children who are socioeconomically disadvantaged and/or members of racial/ethnic minority groups.