Institute for Relationship Science

In the Institute for Relationship Science, our projects and collaborations focus on relationship and family science. Within this field, we are currently conducting studies on:

• Relationship development, transitions, commitment dynamics, cohabitation, and risk and protective factors for relationship distress and divorce as well as adult and child well-being
• Relationship experiences among people from minoritized groups, e.g., those who are from sexual or gender minority communities, racial or ethnic minority communities, or who are socioeconomically marginalized
• Implementation and effectiveness of community-based relationship education programs for teens, adults, and couples
• Maternal health and mental health, co-parenting, parenting, and child functioning

Mission and Vision 

The mission of the Institute is to advance community-centered science, evidence-based initiatives, and public scholarship for the betterment of interpersonal relationships, families, communities, and the public good. 

The Institute’s vision is a collaborative relationship between scholars and the community that applies the strongest research methodology to solve real problems for people, families, and communities who are typically marginalized and underrepresented.