About Us

The Children’s Research Center is led by Gail Tripp, PhD, a professor at OIST and registered clinical psychologist from New Zealand. It is part of the OIST Human Developmental Neurobiology Unit. Our staff have advanced degrees and licenses in psychology and are experienced in working with children and families in Japan and abroad. 

Our research focuses on understanding the nature and causes of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its associated difficulties, using this information to develop and/or improve support for those living with ADHD.

We are currently conducting studies investigating children's behavior and emotional responses to reinforcement (e.g., being praised, winning or losing points), and their language and social skills. We work together with parents, teachers and community members to develop and evaluate a range of behavioral support interventions.