Our research centers on understanding the individual, social, environmental, and cultural factors related to youth bullying. We hope to prevent violence and empower youth so that they can have a brighter future.

We apply statistical methods such as longitudinal, person-centered, and structural equation modeling to understand our research questions.

Personality and Temperament Traits

Why are some youth involved in bullying but not other youth? Every young person is unique. We examine the temperament and personality traits that contribute to bullying perpetration and victimization across childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood.

Social and Cultural Factors

How do social environments impact bullying? We examine how bullying is affected by young people’s homes, schools, communities, and cyber worlds. We also explore the role of culture (e.g., immigrant and underrepresented youth).

Mental Health and Violence

How does youth bullying contribute to long-term outcomes in mental health and violence? We examine how experiencing bullying during youth is related to long-term outcomes of mental health, physical health, aggression, and violence.