The development and behaviour of young people have long fascinated me, particularly how personal traits interact with environmental influences to shape their life paths. My research focuses on understanding the complex interplay between individuals and their surroundings, spanning several interconnected projects.

Longitudinal Research on Juvenile Delinquency

At the core of my work is a decade-long longitudinal study on juvenile delinquency. This project examines how personal characteristics—such as morality and self-control—interact with environmental factors like peer influence and community conditions. Over the past ten years, we’ve completed three waves of data collection, and I’m excited to announce that the fourth wave is about to begin.

Through this study, I aim to uncover how these dynamics evolve as young individuals grow and transition through critical life stages. Tracking these changes longitudinally offers a unique perspective, revealing patterns that may otherwise remain hidden. This research not only deepens our understanding of youth development but also holds potential for informing more effective interventions and support systems.

Exploring Moral Education in Alternative Schools

Another significant area of my research focuses on alternative educational settings for young offenders in China. These schools are designed to support young people who have committed offenses but are not legally liable due to their age.

In collaboration with Dr. Neema, I’m investigating the role of moral education in shaping the behaviours and attitudes of these students. Our goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of these programs and provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance their impact. By understanding how moral education influences these young individuals, we hope to contribute to the broader discourse on restorative justice and youth rehabilitation.

Bridging the Gaps in Understanding School Bullying

My third project addresses the pervasive issue of school bullying. One of the key challenges in tackling bullying is the lack of a universally agreed-upon definition. My research examines the differing perceptions of school bullying among students, teachers, and parents in China.

I believe that bridging these gaps in understanding is crucial. If all stakeholders share a common framework for identifying and addressing bullying, it becomes much easier to collaborate on preventive measures. My work aims to highlight these discrepancies and pave the way for a more unified approach to combating bullying in schools.

A Vision for the Future

Through these projects, my aim is to contribute to a better understanding of youth development and social dynamics, particularly in contexts where personal traits and environmental factors intersect. Whether it’s through longitudinal studies, exploring alternative educational models, or addressing the challenges of school bullying, my hope is to inform policies and practices that support young people in reaching their full potential.

I am deeply passionate about these topics and look forward to engaging with fellow researchers, educators, and policymakers to create meaningful change.

Dr Xiaoya Xun