The Center for Research on Families’ Tay Gavin Erickson Lecture Series: "The Science of the Human-Animal Bond and Adolescent Well-Being" 

The Center for Research on Families is pleased to announce the upcoming Tay Gavin Erickson Lecture, featuring Dr. Megan Mueller, "The Science of the Human-Animal Bond and Adolescent Well-Being." 

For her Dr. Mueller will present an exploration of how companion animal relationships contribute to our scientific understanding of positive youth development. Drawing on her extensive research in human-animal interactions, Dr. Mueller will examine the role of the human-animal bond in promoting adolescent well-being, with particular attention to its impact on emotional regulation, social development, and the mental health of adolescents—especially those experiencing social anxiety. 

About Dr. Megan Mueller: 

Dr. Megan Mueller is an Associate Professor of Human-Animal Interaction at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. She is also the Director of the Pets and Well-Being (PAW) Lab and a faculty member at the Center for Animals and Public Policy. A developmental scientist, Dr. Mueller's research investigates the complex and dynamic relationships between people and animals, with a focus on companion animals' influence on adolescent development and the promotion of positive youth outcomes. 

This lecture will provide valuable insights into the intersection of developmental psychology, animal behavior, and public health, shedding light on how human-animal interactions can serve as a crucial factor in promoting well-being among youth. 

Date: 4/2/2025 
Time: 9:05 – 9:55 AM  
Location: Totman Building, 153 

Link to register: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=C4vQe5UzwU2Uu9Cy5WpJfzvThqSM7uZAgmurrrhgti9UQk0xU05WME1XRTZHWDJBMFRBTVZJTko5TC4u

Please contact Gabrielle Hill, Center for Research on Families Event/Communications Manager gabriellehil@umass.edu with any questions.