Investigating the mental and social development of adolescents
Since the mid 90s, research teams based at the Faculty of Social Studies have focused on the psychological and social development of children and adolescents. Their work has resulted in the publication of several studies describing – among other findings – the lifestyle of today's twenty somethings.
Three research levels
The Institute for Research on Children, Youth and Family is a specialized unit of the FSS. Research focusing on the mental and social development of children and adolescents focuses on three key areas:
- Examining personality development in adolescence and early adulthood
- Exploring the use of digital media in a psychosocial development context
- Identifying the talents and capabilities of children and adolescents.
Paths to Adulthood
The Paths to Adulthood research project received widespread media coverage. It is dedicated to examining the lives of young people between twenty and thirty years of age. Among other findings, research has shown that 72 % of respondents do not always consider themselves as adults even though they have long since passed the threshold of adulthood.
Internet usage poses risks to children and adolescents
Researchers based at the institute participated in EU Kids Online, a major European project investigating the possible risks posed by digital media to Czech and European children and adolescents. Findings confirmed that in comparison with other European groups, Czech children are among the more vulnerable. Results indicate that the Czech Republic must raise awareness among parents and teachers regarding the potential threats posed by the internet and offer advice and recommendations on how to deal with the issue.
Results publication and cooperation with foreign universities
Research results are regularly published in prestigious journals such as Developmental Psychology, Journal of Adolescence and Journal of Adolescent Research. In addition, the institute publishes a major international journal titled Cyberpsychology: Journal of Psychosocial Research on Cyberspace.
Our scientists lecture at international conferences and collaborate with top international partners in Europe and the USA, including e.g. the London School of Economics, University of California, Clark University, University of Bologna, University of Jena and Örebro University.