The Child Welfare Research Project
Mission Statement
The general focus of our research is on improving the functioning of children and
families involved in the court system. Within this broad arena, we have targeted interests
in interventions for children in foster care and children who have been exposed to
domestic violence. In addition, we are interested in developing novel and effective
outreach programs for children whose families are involved in the court.
The goal of this work is to improve the lives of these families so that children and
their families can reach their true potential. This overarching goal is made possible
through three related areas: research, education, and policy.
RESEARCH: To improve the
lives of children and families now, the lab is involved in many clinical research programs.
These programs are designed to develop and test interventions that prevent the onset
or reduce existing psychiatric symptoms and enhance the quality of life.
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EDUCATION: Education is
seen as a forum for community change. The educational efforts of the lab focus on both
the training of future mental health professionals (e.g., marriage and family therapists,
psychologists, and psychiatrists), as well as members of the legal and social services
system.
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POLICY: Long-term, the research and educational
work of the lab is designed to provide valid data that can be used to influence policy.
Through policy change, the health and functioning of all affected children and families
can be improved.
