Current Projects

Tech-based Addiction and Mental Health

Research into young people’s technology use with the aim of understanding the clinical experience of young people who have difficulties as a result of heavy or excessive use of computer and internet related technologies, including but not limited to video games, both online and app-based. The project also considers the impact of heavy or excessive use on existing mental health conditions and its possible contribution to the development of mental illness. This project is ongoing and results will be made available once it has been completed.

Child Beauty Pageants and Their Impact Wellbeing and Body Image

Research into the perceptions of professionals working with children and young people on the impact of child beauty pageants and their potential psychological effects on children and/or teens who participate in them or watch them. In particular, the research focuses on the impact on children’s body image, resilience and perceptions of self-worth – factors strongly related to the development of eating disorders. This project is ongoing and results will be made available once it has been completed.

Evaluating the Long-term Impact of the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Young People Seminars

Research into the long-term impact on professional practice of attendees of the Mental Health and Wellbeing of Young People Seminars. Using both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, this project aims to document changes and modifications in practice as a result of Generation Next’s youth mental health education for professionals, as well as identify gaps in knowledge impacting on professional practice, in particular in relation to current and emerging issues, with a focus on prevention of mental illness. This project is ongoing and results will be made available once it has been completed.

Completed Projects

Cannabis Use among Students

Research into experiences of school staff in addressing student cannabis use, in collaboration with the National Cannabis Prevention and Information Centre (NCPIC). The project has resulted in a number of peer-reviewed publications summarising the results as well as led to the development of specific resources targeted at schools.

Mental Stillness

Research into the perceptions about the role of mental stillness in schools in preventing mental illness, improving wellbeing and resilience, and increasing engagement. The research also developed, trialled and tested the inclusion of a Mental Stillness module in Primary Schools and measured its protective impact in regards to the prevention of specific mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. The project yielded the effective Mental Stillness Program as a primary prevention tool for schools. All participants of our Mental Health and Wellbeing of Young People Seminars are provided with this resource free of charge.