Finding evidence-based ways to strengthen families

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The Strengthening Families Research Initiative is focused on building and disseminating evidence about ways to strengthen families, support parents, and improve child well-being. We bring together scholars across disciplines to study how policy, economics, and social factors shape family stability and child well-being. We conduct rigorous, policy-relevant research on pressing issues related to family formation, single parenthood, and the systems that serve children and families.

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About the Initiative

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Our Evidence

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Facts and Figures

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In the News

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  1. Should You Share a Bed With Your Baby? Why One of Humanity's Oldest Parenting Practices Is Now Controversial

    August 25, 2026

    The old human pattern may be proximity. The modern risks often lie.

    Mentions

    A man with a warm smile wearing a teal, gray, and white plaid button-down shirt in an office.

    Lee Gettler

    Anthropology

  2. Liberal Families Are Looking Pretty Traditional

    August 21, 2026

    What I see in my deep-blue D.C. neighborhood undermines the simplistic culture-war narrative

     

    Mentions

    A woman with dark wavy hair and brown eyes smiles broadly, showing teeth. She wears an off-white textured blazer, a white top, and small gold hoop earrings against a blurred dark background.

    Melissa S. Kearney

    Department of Economics

News

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