Prevention and developmental pathways
Research
Our research brings together expertise in crime prevention, developmental and forensic psychology, criminology and corrections theory to focus on ways in which community safety and human development may be promoted more equitably by institutions of care rather than institutions of regulation. Our research explores the structures and practices of support and service delivery to develop prevention and intervention strategies that best meet the goal of better outcomes for vulnerable, disadvantaged or marginalised members of society. Our work includes a focus on 'at-risk' children, youth, prisoners’ families and sections of the community with multiple agency support needs.
Policy
We partner with all levels of government and non-government organisation service delivery organisations to develop new collaborative approaches to improve quality of life in our communities. Pathways to Prevention, a research program developed by Professor Ross Homel and colleagues to improve transition to school within a community development framework demonstrates how our research continues to shape government policy and the high esteem in which Griffith research is held.
Practice
Working with a broad spectrum of professionals engaged in delivering practical outcomes, including social workers, psychologists, community and welfare support staff, teachers and government service delivery agencies, we ensure that our research continues to make a practical difference to society. Engaging with local communities as a basis for developing nationally and internationally applicable prevention, intervention and assessment models, we ensure that our research contributes solutions for local problems, as well as informing global community empowerment and social innovation practices.