SUBMISSION DEADLINE: May 15
SSHD 2025: Developmental Science for the Public Good
October 24-26, 2025
October 23 Preconference: Diversity Science Initiative Writing Workshop
SUBMIT and REGISTER on the conference website:
https://meetinghand.com/e/society-for-study-of-human-development-biennial-conference/
Research on human development across the lifespan has the potential to improve lives and make a difference in the human experience. The 12th Biennial SSHD Conference, focused on Developmental Science for the Public Good, will showcase research with real-world applications, will emphasize ethical community-engaged scholarship, and will amplify innovative methods and underrepresented voices. Career development panels will also include practical guidance for translating research for policymakers and journalists, applying for grants, and diversifying curricula to enhance accessibility and impact.
Keynote Speakers include: Stephen Russell (The University of Texas at Austin) whose research on LGBTQ+ adolescent health and well-being has helped shape local and state policies and laws to ensure inclusive school safety. Jean Rhodes (University of Massachusetts, Boston) directs the Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring and examines how innovative mentoring programs can help bridge the gap in mental health care among young people. Kwesi Brookins (MIchigan State University) is an expert on community-university partnerships whose research has examined community-based interventions in Black communities to help mitigate the impact of gentrification. Frank Infurna (Arizona State University) whose research uses innovative methods and interventions to explore how individuals can be more resilient to acute and chronic major life stressors in adulthood and old age.
In addition to welcoming submissions examining this year’s theme of Developmental Science for the Public Good, submissions are not restricted to this theme – symposia and poster submissions are welcome on any aspect of development, at any stage of the life span or life course. The program committee also encourages contributions that advance the Society’s Diversity Science Initiative and Emerging Scholars.
There are four presentation options: Posters, Individual Papers, Data Blitz Talks, and Symposia. Submissions for Posters, Individual Papers, and Data Blitz Talks will describe scientific findings in an abstract of 250 words. Individual Papers will be grouped with similar topics by the SSHD organizers prior to the conference. Data Blitz Talks are designed to be a fast-paced overview of research and are limited to 5-minute talks focused on methods and results. Symposia allow several people to address a particular topic in an integrative manner. As symposia will be scheduled for 75 minutes, we recommend no more than 3 individual presentations (20-min each) with the remaining 15 minutes used to provide or promote integrative discussion. Submissions will require the individual abstracts, plus an overview and description of how the talks will be integrated.