Emerging areas of science

Three-d rendered anatomy illustration of a human child body shape with active brain.
Three-d rendered anatomy illustration of a human child body shape with active brain. © Shubhangi Kene | Dreamstime Images

Introduction

As we seek to build a more peaceful world and to improve the lives of children from preconception onwards, we need to work with colleagues around the globe to advance our knowledge in emerging areas of science that are key to moving the field forward. This new knowledge will inform policy-makers and spur investment. Key areas include: The Search for Potential Biomarkers; how best to Build Resilience in Children and Youth affected by conflict and displacement (e.g., Mercy Corps); Engage Fathers in Early Childhood Development Programs; and how best to incorporate Peacebuilding and Violence Prevention elements within the curriculum of programs.  

Explore this work area by scrolling through each of the sections and subsections below.

Additional information relating to this work area will be provided as it becomes available.

Topics & initiatives

Mother kisses her sleepy daughter on the cheek.

The search for potential biomarkers

Given the promise of early parent-child programs to build more peaceful and socially cohesive homes and communities, researchers have been actively examining the basic biological building blocks of attachment, social engagement, and group formation and their interface with our stress response circuits.
Smiling boy sits barefoot cross-legged in lotus position on wooden floor and looks up at the morning sun.

Building resilience in children & youth

In recent years, the notion of Resilience has grown into an important concept for both scholars and practitioners working around the globe. Learn why resilience offers the promise of a paradigm shift in many fields of research, clinical practice, and policy.
Happy father and young daughter share a hug.

Engaging fathers in early childhood development programs

Learn why fathers matter and how their engagement in intervention, prevention and research efforts improve the wellbeing of their young children and households. 

  • AÇEV— Mother Child Education Foundation
  • Supporting Father Involvement (SFI)
  • Policy brief: Fathers matter for peace, equity, and social inclusion
Young school children from Mynmar sitting together on floor, wave hand peace signs.

Peacebuilding & violence prevention elements in the curriculum of programs

Learn why peacebuilding improves the quality of UNICEF’s programs in conflict-affected areas and builds capacities for more cohesive, peaceful societies.

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