The Poverty, Policy, and Social Investment Lab studies how public policy shapes economic security, opportunity, and long-term well-being. We consider that poverty is multidimensional and investigate how social investments can strengthen communities and reduce inequality.
Mission
The Poverty, Policy, and Social Investment Lab conducts interdisciplinary research to understand how public policies shape economic hardship and opportunity. We examine poverty not only as material deprivation, but as a structural relationship between markets, institutions, and the public sector.
Through policy analysis, qualitative and mixed-methods research, and community-engaged scholarship, we investigate how social investment strategies, such as debt relief, income supports, and financial inclusion, can promote long-term economic security and community well-being.
Our work aims to inform equitable, evidence-based public policy and train the next generation of scholars and practitioners committed to strengthening social infrastructure.
What We Study
Our research focuses on:
- Household debt, financial exclusion, and borrowing under constraint
- Community-based debt relief and financial capability interventions
- Cross-national comparisons of social policy and consumer debt
- Cash transfers and well-being outcomes
- Narratives and lived experiences of economic insecurity
- Financial exploitation and aging
- Social media and qualitative innovation in poverty research
Our Approach
We combine:
- Policy analysis and evaluation
- Qualitative and mixed-methods research
- Narrative and discourse analysis
- Community-engaged and participatory approaches
- Cross-national and comparative inquiry
We are especially committed to translating research into policy conversations and public engagement.
Why Social Investment?
We use the term social investment to emphasize that public policy is foundational infrastructure for health and wellbeing. Investments in income stability, financial security, and community capacity shape long-term health, opportunity, and democratic resilience.
Training & Mentorship
The Lab supports undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students through research assistantships, collaborative projects, and mentorship in policy-relevant scholarship.
