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Events & conferences > MYD Seminar series > Dunedin Longitudinal Study
Dunedin Longitudinal Study
On 1 November 2007, the Ministry of Youth Development hosted a seminar on the Dunedin Longitudinal Study - “What longitudinal studies can tell us about the life chances of New Zealand youth”.
Presenter
Professor Richie Poulton, Director, Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health
and Development Research Unit, Department of Preventive & Social
Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago.
About the Study
Science in human populations is increasingly concerned with
understanding how genes and environments work together to predict
disorder. Perhaps unexpectedly, research that integrates information
about genetic variability with data about life experiences underscores
the importance of ‘environmental’ manipulations for improving both
health and social outcomes.
But which intervention targets are the best
bets?
This question is considered in light of recent findings from the
Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study about the
development of mental health problems, antisocial behaviour, teen
substance abuse and overweight. The data emphasises the importance of
early intervention, and the value of the prevention paradigm for
reducing disease burden and improving well-being. Practical suggestions
are made about the types of intervention that might enhance the choices
and capabilities of New Zealand children, now, and in the future.
Professor Richie Poulton worked as a Clinical Psychologist in New
Zealand and Australia before completing a PhD at UNSW in Sydney. He
returned to New Zealand in 1995 to become Deputy Director, then
Director from 2000, of the Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and
Development Study, having first worked on the Study as an interviewer
in 1985/86.
He has published 100+ peer-reviewed scientific papers, with
many appearing in leading international journals. His research
interests include developmental psychopathology, gene-environment
interplay in the prediction of complex disorders, and psychosocial
determinants of physical health.
More Information
For more information on this seminar, email us at mydinfo@myd.govt.nz
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