Youth-Centered Approaches to Media Research in Director’s Series

Explore Innovative Youth-Centered Media Research Approaches

In this engaging lecture, Dr. Jenny Radesky and Dr. Megan Moreno delve into youth-centered strategies for researching social media and explore how these approaches influence current frameworks, methodologies, and product development aimed at young audiences. Their insights provide a comprehensive overview of how understanding the dynamics of media interaction can lead to improved outcomes for children and adolescents.

Dr. Radesky introduced the innovative DREAMER Model (Dynamic, Relational, Ecologic Approach to Media Effects Research; Barr, Kirkorian, Coyne & Radesky, 2024), a groundbreaking conceptual framework designed to enhance research on early childhood media consumption. This model goes beyond traditional studies that merely focused on child “screen time” by examining the intricate context of media use within parent-child relationships. Dr. Radesky’s research highlights how media influences both parents and children, emphasizing the importance of media design and considering external factors like poverty and stress that shape developmental outcomes. She shared recent findings that utilize the DREAMER Model, illustrating its significance for clinical guidance through the comprehensive 5Cs framework.

Dr. Moreno elaborated on the impactful 5Cs framework for understanding teen media use. She presented findings from the Brain, Behavior, and Well-Being project, which investigates the relationship between adolescent development and digital media engagement. This project employs an interdisciplinary methodology, driven by insights from a Youth Advisory Board, and has led to the development of new methods and strategies for conducting social media research among adolescents. Dr. Moreno also underscored how this project aligns with and enriches the 5Cs framework, demonstrating the critical intersection of youth development and digital interactions.

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Learn More About Dr. Jenny Radesky

Dr. Jenny Radesky serves as an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Michigan Medical School and is the Division Director of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics. With a B.A. in Natural Sciences from Johns Hopkins University and an M.D. from Harvard Medical School, Dr. Radesky brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her field. In her leadership roles since 2022, including Service Chief, she has made significant contributions to pediatric care. As of 2024, Dr. Radesky has also been appointed as a Behavioral Expert with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, showcasing her influence in child development policy.

Her research predominantly focuses on the complex intersection of early childhood development and digital media usage, particularly examining how parental use of mobile devices affects interactions with children and their subsequent behavioral outcomes. Through innovative research methodologies and collaborations with experts across various disciplines, she is dedicated to advancing our understanding of media’s role in early childhood, aiming to apply her findings to both clinical practices and public policy to enhance child welfare.

Discover Dr. Megan Moreno’s Contributions to Adolescent Health

Dr. Megan Moreno is a Professor of Pediatrics and Adjunct Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In addition to her academic roles, she serves as Vice Chair of Academic Affairs and Interim Chair of the Department of Pediatrics. Dr. Moreno obtained her B.A. in Political Science from Northwestern University and earned her M.D. from George Washington University. After completing her pediatrics residency and serving as Chief Resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she pursued an Adolescent Medicine and STD/HIV Research Fellowship at the University of Washington, where she also earned a Master of Public Health and a Master of Education.

Her research and leadership endeavors focus on the critical intersection of digital technology and adolescent health. Dr. Moreno is dedicated to improving digital environments for young people, investigating how technology and digital media (TDM) affect adolescent brain development and behavior, understanding their health information-seeking behaviors, and exploring the role of technology in promoting mental wellness.

Innovative Insights from the Director’s Innovation Speaker Series

The Director’s Innovation Speaker Series established by NIMH aims to foster broad, interdisciplinary thinking that leads to the development of innovative scientific initiatives and programs. This initiative encourages speakers to share their work with a focus on breaking through established boundaries and generating successful new ideas. Participants are invited to engage in discussions about what constitutes innovation, creativity, breakthroughs, and paradigm shifts that can propel various fields forward.

Grateful Acknowledgment to Our Sponsors

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Division of Extramural Activities for their support in making this event possible.