At Orlean Beeson School of Education, students majoring in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) are required to complete an original research project in order to graduate.

“The School of Education fosters research opportunities because we want to contribute to the good of the whole, we want our knowledge to improve the lives of individuals and communities around the world,” said Anna McEwan, dean of the School of Education.

Through innovation and leadership, the school continues to excel in global conversations surrounding the field of education, human development and family science. Undergraduate research in HDFS has received national recognition for its innovative work and contributions to the field.

Learn more about investing in the purpose driven preparation of our students, which pays dividends as they fulfill their calling to serve children and families.

Fall 2022

Chronic Illness and Family Cohesion 
Molly Barton

Rituals and Family Dynamics
Evans Blanchard & Gracie Blastic 

Profanities, Relationships, and Well-being
Caroline Brown & Stuart Fischer

Foster Families, Stress, and Burnout
Libby Faucett

Dyslexia, Family Support, and Self-Esteem
Hailey Fults & Tori Stone

The Importance of Play in Parent-Child Relationships
Faith Jones – Read more

Patriarchal Beliefs’ Influence and Christian Women’s Pursuit of Career Leadership and Education
Rebekah Marsh – Read more

The Relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences, Hope, and Resilience
Sara Mechem 

Eating Disorders and the Health of Families
Kaitlyn Parks & Emma Peebles 

Spring 2023

 Trauma-Informed Parenting and Resilience
Adlie Green & Emma Stoebner 

Brain Injury and Friendships
Jocquet Jiles 

Compassion in Siblings of People with Disabilities
Taylor Myers 

Parental Illness and Family Functioning
Jordyn Keesing 

Racism and Mental Health
Ellie Borcherding & Allie Raymond

Missionary Families’ Well-being
Sterling Cannady 

Family Communication and Student Adjustment
Hannah Daffin & Grace Daniels

Emotional Abuse and Parenting
Bailee Danner 

Substance Abuse and Attachment
Kylie Gazza & Skiles Waggener 

Substance Abuse and Family Functioning
Eva Labine & Malone McElroy

Parenting and Alcohol Use
Rob Rait