EMPOWER Research Lab

Welcome to the EMPOWER Research Lab at the University of California, Riverside (UCR) directed by Dr. Eui Kyung Kim! Our vision is to empower racially and ethnically minoritized individuals in K-12 educational settings. Utilizing asset-based and transactional-ecological approaches, we examine the interplay of intrapersonal, interpersonal, and contextual factors that influence the development and well-being of students, families, and teachers from diverse cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, we aim to strengthen the link between research and practice, leading to positive systemic changes in K-12 education and school psychology training and scholarship. 

Our research projects aim to enhance 1) culturally responsive screening and intervention methods for social-emotional resilience in K-12 students, 2) diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in school psychology training and scholarship, and 3) the school climate experienced by K-12 community members from marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds. 

Current student research projects focus on topics such as childhood trauma, help-seeking behaviors, engagement in risk behaviors, and bullying victimization, all while considering the intersectionality of identities.