Research

In the Department of Family Social Science, we study systems frameworks (such as family systems theory or ecological models) to understand, advance knowledge, and enhance the well-being of “diverse families in a changing world.” Families and family systems are inextricably linked to and intertwined with all aspects of healthy family functioning and human development.

Advancing knowledge in family science and human development

As a department, we advance knowledge in human development across multiple life stages and transitions. Faculty expertise spans family systems, family processes, and family socialization; parenting, parent-child interactions, and parent education; personal and family finances and financial literacy; as well as the intersection of families, neighborhoods, and communities in health, well-being, and development.

Using a systems approach makes us unique

Grounded in inclusion, diversity, equity, and justice

Emerging and enduring departmental priorities

Learn more about FSoS research

Projects, Labs & Outreach

Visit the projects, labs & outreach page to learn about active faculty research projects and collaborations.

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Extension

The extension page highlights extension specialist projects across Minnesota and across the nation.

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Dive deeper into FSoS research

Ambiguous loss Ambiguous loss

Loss that occurs when there is no verification of death

Research and topics

Child welfare Child welfare

Using a variety of research methods to understand foster care dynamics and inform policies, interventions, and support systems to enhance the well-being of children and families in the foster care system.

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Children's mental health in the context of families Children's mental health in the context of families

Traumatic events during childhood.

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Community impacts on individual and family heath and well-being Community impacts on individual and family heath and well-being

Promoting connections between people who live in the same area, or share the same goals; acknowledgment and study of the role one's surroundings play in one's development.

Culturally responsive relational interventions Culturally responsive relational interventions

Understanding how cultural factors influence the dynamics of relationships and applying this knowledge to design interventions that are sensitive and responsive to the unique needs of individuals from various cultural backgrounds.

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Culture, families, and human development Culture, families, and human development

Understanding the differences between one's own culture and the cultures of others to effectively connect, teach, and help.

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Diverse family systems Diverse family systems

Explores families and culture, refugee family resettlement and adjustment, transnational family systems, and families and conflict.

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Extension Extension

University of Minnesota Extension partners with counties and tribal communities to deliver local programming throughout the state and build a better future through science-based knowledge, expertise and training.

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Family and human development in context Family and human development in context

Researching and analyzing how children form relationships, navigate conflict, and understand themselves within a community.

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Family financial health and well-being Family financial health and well-being

Exploring and understanding best practices of financial counselors/coaches who work with clients of color; college students’ money management practices; and the economic stability and viability of families in our society, specifically those who are…

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Family systems and family processes Family systems and family processes

The dynamics, influences, and outcomes associated with these relationships in order to inform theories about family dynamics, influence therapeutic interventions, and provide insights into the factors that contribute to positive or challenging…

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Innovative methods Innovative methods

The integration of quantitative and qualitative methods in family science allows researchers to explore the complexity of family life, providing a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding that can inform both theory and practice.

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Parenting and intergenerational relationships Parenting and intergenerational relationships

This focuses on studying the dynamics and interactions between different generations within families and societies and explores how individuals from various age groups relate to and influence each other, examining both the positive and challenging…

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Prevention and intervention science Prevention and intervention science

A multi-disciplinary approach to developing, testing, and disseminating evidence-based strategies and programs that improve the health and wellbeing of diverse individuals, families, and communities.

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Relationship health and well-being in couples, families, and communities Relationship health and well-being in couples, families, and communities

Researching and training practitioners in therapy and counseling for relationships, including the decision-making processes and factors influencing couples' decisions to either continue their marriage or pursue divorce.

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Resilience in families and communities Resilience in families and communities

Understanding how individuals and families navigate and adapt to challenging circumstances in order create strategies and develop interventions to enhance their well-being.

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Sexual and gender diversity in individuals and families Sexual and gender diversity in individuals and families

This research delves into the psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence the formation of gender identity and may also investigate the intersectionality of gender identity with other aspects of identity, such as race, ethnicity, and…

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Social influences on relationship functioning Social influences on relationship functioning

Understanding the complex interplay between individuals, families, and the broader social environment, with implications for relationship counseling, policy development, and societal well-being.

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Technology and families Technology and families

Explores the interplay between digital technology (e.g., smartphones, social media, Internet) and family dynamics and its impacts on family relationships, youth development, and family members' well-being.

Research and topics

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