Family & Child Sciences | FSU College of Human Sciences

“My interests focus on the study of social injustices that threaten families and create poor health outcomes.”
Joe Grzywacz, Ph.D.
“I study the ways social technology functions within children’s social development and peer interaction.”
Bethany Blair, Ph.D.
“My research includes adolescent and young adult development, parenting and interpersonal relationships.”
Ming Cui, Ph.D.
“My research focuses on marriage and partnerships, and the impact of conflict on children.”
Frank Fincham, Ph.D.
“My research focuses on the psychosocial well-being of Latino youth and families.”
Melinda Gonzales-Backen, Ph.D.
“My primary clinical interests are crises within families and the resiliency that follows.”
Kristen Greene, Ph.D.
“My research has included the broad aspects of family health, wellness, and disease prevention from a social behavioral/public health model.”
Gregory Harris, Ph.D.
“I study the links between mindfulness and adult attachment, and how they alter perceptions in couple and family relationships.”
Jonathan Kimmes, Ph.D.
“My research focuses on the development of social competence in young children.”
Murray Krantz, Ph.D.
“I am interested in data analysis methods on small groups and interpersonal relationships.”
Thomas Ledermann, Ph.D.
“I research the mental health needs of children and families deemed at-risk, and relational interventions aimed to improve the well-being of individuals and families.”
Lenore McWey, Ph.D.
“My most scholarly work has focused on program development, including the development of community-based programs and higher education programs.”
Penny Ralston, Ph.D.
“I am currently involved in the qualitative analysis of narratives concerning the roles of spirituality and parental overindulgence in the lives of adolescents.”
Marsha Rehm, Ph.D.

Meet Bella Hudson, making an impact through creativity
Isabella (“Bella”) Hudson is an advocate for helping others through the creative process. She majored in family and …
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Dr. Gonzales-Backen Awarded Fellowship by Florida Education Fund
Assistant professor in Family & Child Sciences, Mindy Gonzales-Backen (Ph.D.), was awarded a McKnight Junior …
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Student & Alumni Spotlight
Current and former students are doing amazing things. From awards to careers, we’re proud to feature some of …
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Family and Child Sciences is more than working with people – we strive to make a difference in their lives. We offer programs of study for both undergraduate and graduate students that address the needs of children, youth, adults, and families across the lifespan, with special attention to those in complicated families.

R1 RESEARCH UNIVERSITY

FSU is one of only 115 institutions classified as an “R1 Research University… (Highest research activity)” in the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

COLLABORATION

An interdisciplinary research environment enables shared learning between disciplines, faculty and cohorts. This entrepreneurial spirit within a single department inspires curiosity and optimizes performance.

FACULTY INTERESTS

An esteemed roster of faculty enables students an opportunity to study topics with professional researchers who share their interest.

Optimizing child and family well-being

Students

Faculty and Staff

Centers and Institutes

Research

News

Inspiring Curiosity

Optimizing child and family well-being

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