Research

The mission of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences is to conduct inquiries and applications to achieve optimal health and reduce health inequalities in West Virginia and the global community. The department has a vision for improved physical and mental health across the lifespan. This mission and vision are achieved through community-engaged research, education and service to impact population health at the state and local level in West Virginia and Appalachia through policymakers, schools, primary care clinics, state and local health departments, and community-based organizations. Through these channels, the department specializes in intervention planning, implementation, evaluation and dissemination research.