Behavioral Science
The Center’s behavioral science researchers study the pre-event behaviors that are risk factors for injury and then develop interventions to increase the adoption of safe behaviors. Work in behavioral science research has focused primarily on increasing the use of age- and- size-appropriate child restraints, as well as improving safe driving behaviors among teenagers.
Behavioral Science research in the post-event phase addresses the emotional impact of injury and trauma. Center researchers have applied this post-event research to develop screening tools to help physicians identify children and parents at risk for acute and longer-term post traumatic stress. This research has also informed the development of fact sheets and workbooks for use by parents and children to help them manage the psychological stress of injury and to avoid its long-term emotional consequences.
