The Youth & Interactive Media Coalition at Harvard University is dedicated to advancing the wellbeing of youth in the digital age.
The Youth & Interactive Media Coalition (YIMC) is composed of experts across Harvard University, including faculty, researchers, and staff. Our mission is to facilitate information sharing, research collaboration, and collective amplification of efforts among groups across the Harvard University ecosystem working on projects and research related to youth and interactive media. We aim to achieve this by leveraging the expertise and resources of our diverse members through collaborative partnerships, strategic consultation, and dissemination. Ultimately, the Coalition strives to advance progress on issues impacting youth in the digital age.
Our Mission
As the global focus on youth mental health intensifies, we acknowledge both the positive and negative impacts that technology can have on young people’s wellbeing. Our coalition is committed to understanding and mitigating the risks while maximizing the benefits of interactive media. By working together through collaborative partnerships, strategic consultation, and dissemination of our findings, we aim to make a significant impact on youth mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Support
ACADEMIC & RESEARCH
We offer fellow Coalition members access to data, research findings, and academic expertise to facilitate evidence-based approaches and innovative solutions.
TECHNICAL & LOGISTICAL
We seek to provide tools, technologies, and logistical assistance necessary for conducting research and implementing initiatives.
EMOTIONAL & PROFESSIONAL
As a network of professionals, we offer guidance, mentorship, and emotional support to those working on youth and interactive media projects.
Collaboration
INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAMWORK
We seek to engage experts from various fields such as mental health, communication, digital wellness, and public policy to work together on comprehensive solutions.
JOINT RESEARCH INITIATIVES
We seek to coordinate research efforts to explore the multifaceted impacts of interactive media on youth and to develop integrated strategies.
SHARED RESOURCES & KNOWLEDGE
We share public resources, research, and best practices across the coalition to leverage each organization’s strengths and areas of influence, ensuring that valuable insights and tools reach the widest possible audience.
Amplification
MUTUAL PROMOTION
We seek to actively promote each other’s research findings, initiatives, and resources across platforms and networks to extend reach and visibility.
STAKEHOLDER CONNECTION
We connect fellow organizations with relevant stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and community leaders, when another member is better suited to address specific needs or opportunities.
COLLABORATIVE OUTREACH
We seek to coordinate outreach efforts to present a unified voice on key issues, thereby amplifying the Coalition’s collective message and increasing its influence in shaping public discourse and policy.
Our Members
Areas of Expertise
Direct Youth Engagement
Education & Program Evaluation
Emerging Technologies
Information, News & Media
Mental Health
Problematic Interactive Media Use (PIMU)
Social-Emotional Health
Tech Safety & Privacy
Youth Development