Dr. Jennifer Connolly
Dr. Jennifer Connolly studies adolescent development and mental health with a central focus on the role of relationships in promoting resilience among adolescents and young adults, especially those who are under stress and have experienced adversity. Her research examines how a person’s closest relationships, with caregivers, friends and romantic partners, promote coping and resilience or conversely undermine positive adaptation. Current research broadly focuses on the intersection of romantic relationships and gender based violence across high risk youth. In partnership with community agencies (York Region Children’s Aid Society and York Region Police) she is conducting research on sex trafficking of underage girls, including identification of risk factors and evidence-based early intervention.
