The Social Development Laboratory is transitioning to become the
Environment, Connectedness, & Health: Online-Offline (ECHO-O) Lab.
Whilst our work is continuing to explore human development, we have recognised our expanding interests. The new lab name reflects the work that we are currently doing. Our lab group is part of the Lifespan Research Network in the Department of Psychology at Royal Holloway, University of London. The ECHO-O lab’s work focuses on examining the development and consequences of young people’s social understanding and behaviours on the impact of their social relationships, mental health and wellbeing.
Research areas seek to understand how our online and offline interactions may impact Mental Health and Wellbeing. We seek to advance our understanding of:
- self-presentation (online and offline)
- online self-disclosure behaviours
- social media risks and benefits for young people
- importance of spending time offline, specifically in nature
- role of nature engagement and biodiverse landscape
ECHO-O Lab is co-directed by Dr Beatrice Hayes and Professor Dawn Watling.
