The research undertaken within this research profile area focuses on all phases of human development, from infancy and childhood to old age, with special attention being paid to the following topics:

• (a) Genetic and environmental determinants and risk factors for disease and derailment.
• (b) Primary and secondary prevention of somatic and psychological diseases.
• (c) Intervention strategies to prevent exacerbation of disorders.

The developmental stages - from childhood and youth to adulthood and old age (the life cycle) - constitute the concept that connects the three research topics. This aspect distinguishes the research theme from research conducted at other (inter)national universities.

The research profile area offers an excellent opportunity for a range of disciplines to join forces and increase our knowledge about more fundamental and applied questions relating to the determinants of psychological and somatic disorders and the prevention of diseases during the entire life cycle. 
 

Announcing a conference on: "Abuse & Neglect across the life span"

This conference will be held on October 5 and 6, 2012, at the Stadsgehoorzaal, Leiden, The Netherlands. For information on the conference, click here.

Social Anxiety Conference:

We organized a Social Anxiety Conference in June, 2011. The Conference consisted of a 2-day round-table meeting: an official KNAW Academy Colloquium in Amsterdam (June 6 and 7, 2011). This meeting was attended by about 50 experts who discussed the state of affairs in the field. The Colloquium was followed by a one-day Master Class in Leiden (June 8, 2011), which consisted of three general lectures and 11 PhD presentations.

The Conference was sponsored by the KNAW and the Leiden University Research Profile Area: Health, Prevention and the Human Life Cycle.

For a photo impression of the conference, click here.
For several articles about the Social Anxiety conference and research project that have appeared in the (Dutch) media, click here.