What are we researching?
Youth are our future. But next generations will face significant challenges such as climate change, pandemics and an ageing society. How can we give them the best possible opportunities? And how do we ensure that all young people keep up? We study factors that contribute to optimal child development.
Why are we doing this research?
Youth deserve the best possible opportunities to grow up to be healthy and happy adults. As youth and family researchers, we study the environment in which they grow up—their family, educators, and (romantic) relationships.
How are we doing this research?
To gain insight into which environmental factors contribute to the development of youth, we use various research methods, such as observations and long-term questionnaire research. We want to do justice to diversity in our research because no two children or families are the same.
How does our research make an impact?
Our research into the development of families and children provides insight into the factors that contribute to a healthy development and what stands in the way of this development. What does and does not work in youth care? What can we do to detect domestic violence at an early stage? How does the daily practice of parenting contribute to the development of children and young people? And how are the effects of parenting different, from child to child?
We investigate this by mapping the daily life of families and children with innovative research methods, such as new interviewing techniques and experience sampling. And by conducting independent evaluations of interventions in practice. Scientific research in, and in cooperation with, practice provides insights into what works, for whom it works and how it works. With this knowledge, we inform policymakers and professionals, make interventions more effective, and come up with innovative solutions to solve social issues.