Improving lives through science and discovery
The Prevention Science Institute is a multidisciplinary research institute.
We focus on understanding human development, preventing behavioral health problems, and implementing effective interventions in community settings.
Our annual report highlights ongoing research projects and training activities.
News
August 11, 2025
UO launches center to help improve middle schoolers' mental health
"We're in a mental health crisis. For the past two decades, mental health issues have been escalating, particularly among youth," said John Seeley, PhD, a professor and associate dean for research in the University of Oregon College of Education. "The COVID-19 pandemic put a spotlight on students in need of additional supports, and that's the aim of the center — to help provide those additional supports."
July 1, 2025
UO plans national children’s mental health center with $11M grant
With a new $11 million federal grant, the University of Oregon will create a national center for children’s mental health, putting the university at the forefront of national prevention efforts to improve the mental health and well-being of adolescents. In partnership with middle schools, the center will focus on identifying issues early on.
June 30, 2025
Four-day school week may not be best for students, review finds
A new University of Oregon review of 11 studies found little evidence that the four-day school week benefits student academic performance, attendance, behavior or graduation rates. “Districts often turn to four-day school weeks to address budget and staffing pressures, but the evidence suggests this change may come at a cost to students,” said Elizabeth Day, a research assistant professor at the HEDCO Institute and part of the team that produced the report.
June 2, 2025
Emily Tanner-Smith, PhD, selected as a Society for Prevention Research Fellow
The 2025 Recognition and Honors Committee, with nominations from the membership of the Society for Prevention Research (SPR), selected Emily Tanner-Smith to be a Fellow. Fellowship is an honor that SPR bestows upon a small and select group of members who have a particularly distinguished record of contributions in the field of prevention research.