The Risk & Resilience Lab at the University of Pennsylvania
We conduct interdisciplinary research to better understand how adverse experiences and the policies designed to address them affect people over the course of their lives.
Our Areas of Focus
Understanding How Children and Families are Affected by Social Policies
We study the impact of social policy on child and family well-being, including health, academic outcomes, and parent-child relationships.
Understanding Intergenerational Transmission of Adversity
We study continuities and discontinuities in the intergenerational transmission of adversity, including poverty, child maltreatment, and mental health problems.
Understanding the Impact of Violence on Development
We study how violence in the family and in the community affects development across the life course. We also study why some children and adolescents are resilient to these forms of violence.
About the Risk and Resilience Lab
The Risk and Resilience Lab at the University of Pennsylvania is directed by Professor Sara Jaffee. Research in the Risk and Resilience Lab focuses on how adverse experiences shape people’s mental health and their life outcomes, both within and across generations. Research conducted in the Risk and Resilience Lab is highly interdisciplinary. Our collaborators include neuroscientists, policy researchers, criminologists, physicians, and other psychologists, as well as agency partners in the City of Philadelphia.
For Grad Students
Professor Jaffee is recruiting graduate students for fall 2025. Click the button below to learn about desired qualifications and how to apply.
For Research Assistants
Our lab is always looking for motivated undergraduate students to assist with research in developmental psychopathology.
For Participants
We are always happy to talk with participants in on-going studies and to answer any questions you have! Click the button below for information about whom you should contact.
Our Latest Research
Reach Out to the Risk & Resilience Lab
We always enjoy hearing from individuals interested in our research, whether it be to learn more or to get involved!
