Christian M. Connell

"I want to help child- and family-serving systems better understand the needs of the populations they serve and make sound decisions about how best to support children and families in their efforts."

Christian Connell's research program focuses on the experiences of youth who have been maltreated, as well as those who become involved in the child welfare system and other child-serving systems (e.g., mental health, juvenile justice).

"As a clinical-community psychologist, I use applied research methods that engage system leaders, policymakers, and practitioners in research to address critical systems issues, evaluate effects of program and policy initiatives, and promote effective system change. I use a trauma-informed social-ecological framework to examine individual, family, and other contextual influences on the relation of maltreatment to child behavioral health outcomes. My research examines the effects of maltreatment and other adverse experiences on child and adolescent mental health and well-being, their system involvement trajectories, and the effects of interventions to reduce negative outcomes of these experiences. I also conduct research on system-change initiatives to improve organizational capacity to meet the needs of children and families."

More information on Dr. Connell's work >>

Legislating to prevent adverse childhood experiences: Growth and opportunities for evidence-based policymaking and prevention

Crowley, D.M., Connell, C.M., Noll, J., Green, L., Scott, T., Giray, C. (2021). Legislating to prevent adverse childhood experiences: Growth and opportunities for evidence-based policymaking and prevention. Prevention Science. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11121-021-01292-x

Experiences with COVID-19 stressors and parents’ use of neglectful, harsh, and positive parenting practices in the northeastern United States

Connell, C. M., & Strambler, M. J. (2021). Experiences with COVID-19 stressors and parents’ use of neglectful, harsh, and positive parenting practices in the northeastern United States. Child Maltreatment. https://doi.org/10.1177/10775595211006465