Research
The Behavioural Science Institute is a multidisciplinary research institute. Our research crosses the boundaries of psychology, pedagogical sciences, educational sciences, and communication science. The BSI has seven research programmes covering three key themes: human development, connection, and health. We conduct fundamental and applied/translational research and have excellent facilities and support for lab and field research.
Research themes
Development
In this research theme, we focus primarily on the development and learning of infants, children, and adolescents. We study (1) social development in social contexts, (2) individual differences in learning and education, and (3) health behaviours. We aim to uncover the processes underlying social-cognitive, motor, and health development as well as the difference between and within individuals over time. Using these insights, we develop and tailor preventive interventions for infants, children and adolescents.
Connection
Within this theme, we seek to understand how and why relationships flourish or worsen. We also study how the characteristics and attributes of social relationships impact behaviour, health, and overall well-being. We focus on several connection types, ranging from close relationships in everyday life to those in formal settings and human-technology relationships.
Health
In this theme, we study psychopathology, mental well-being, and health behaviours, such as physical exercise, sedentary behaviour, healthy eating, smoking or alcohol abuse. In doing so, we aim to uncover the underlying mechanisms of mental health and health-related behaviours and to develop evidence-based preventive and treatment interventions.
