New Phd graduate at the Unit

Vashti Berry graduated as Doctor of Philosophy today from the University of Bath.

Vashti’s doctoral studies considered the impact of different strategies to resolve family conflict on children’s health and development.
 
The work sparked her interest in the way that neighbourhoods, schools and families mediate risks to child well-being. The research, based on a sample of families selected to be representative of Dublin, Ireland, showed how psychological aggression and minor physical violence – the most common way of resolving conflict in families – elevates the risk of childhood disorder.
 
As well as sponsoring a broader inquiry into the role of neighbourhoods, school and family context in child development, her study has highlighted the potential for public health approaches to child protection and domestic violence.
 
Joining her at the ceremony were her parents, husband Graham and son Tristan.