Children and Youth in Challenging Contexts Institute

Director: Dr. Michael Ungar

The Children and Youth in Challenging Contexts (CYCC) Institute is an interdisciplinary research initiative and a network of Canadian and international researchers committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children and youth. CYCC Institute researchers examine the political, social, psychological and biological factors that pose serious risks to children and youth exposed to adversity across contexts and cultures. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, the Institute promotes change at the program and policy level that will improve the protection and well-being of young people around the world. More than 200 policy makers, mental health practitioners, directors of local and international NGOs, law enforcement officers, Aboriginal child welfare advocates, national defence personnel, and researchers are among the community partners who provide leadership to, and benefit from, the work of the Institute.