Press & Thought Leadership

Dr. Uhls explains how digital environments influence identity, relationships, and emotional development—and why quality of content matters as much as quantity.

Coverage highlighting Dr. Uhls’ research on how teens are navigating social media, and what parents and creators often misunderstand.

CSS findings suggest that teens are increasingly prioritizing emotional intimacy, friendship, and meaningful relationships over excessive sexual content in media narratives.

Dr. Uhls insights reinforce that friendship and belonging are becoming central emotional drivers for young audiences, especially in creator-led spaces that feel authentic and community-oriented.

CSS research underscores how Gen Z is rejecting emotionally detached storytelling in favor of narratives that prioritize sincerity, vulnerability, and authentic human relationships.

CSS research emphasizes that younger generations are pushing back against outdated portrayals of masculinity and are responding more strongly to characters who model empathy, vulnerability, and emotional openness.

 Profile of Uhls’ work translating youth research into actionable insights for the entertainment industry through CSS.

CSS research points to a growing demand among teens for portrayals of “connected masculinity” that reflect emotional intelligence, care, and healthier relationship dynamics.

CSS research reflects a broader shift toward emotionally resonant storytelling, with Gen Z audiences increasingly gravitating toward animation, sincerity, and character-driven narratives.

CSS research points to emotional safety and feeling understood as foundational needs for young people, both in relationships and in the media they consume.

Dr. Uhls’ work highlights how today’s young audiences and families are increasingly seeking trusted media experiences that foster emotional connection, resilience, and healthy development.

Dr. Uhls explains how digital environments influence identity, relationships, and emotional development—and why quality of content matters as much as quantity.

 Profile of Uhls’ work translating youth research into actionable insights for the entertainment industry through CSS.

Dr. Yalda Uhls discusses the evolving conversation around body image and brand messaging, sharing insights on why many companies are moving beyond body positivity toward more authentic, nuanced approaches to representation and self-image.

Dr. Yalda Uhls discusses new research examining how growing up during periods of social, economic, and global uncertainty has shaped Gen Z’s priorities, highlighting why safety, connection, and emotional well-being matter more than ever to young people today.

Dr. Uhls discusses emerging research showing teens prioritize authenticity, safety, and meaningful connection over performative content.

Shifts the conversation from “how much” to “what kind” of media teens consume—and why that distinction matters.

Dr. Uhls shares research on how creators can reach teens with mental health content in an increasingly digital world, exploring how storytelling and social media can be leveraged to foster connection, support, and meaningful conversations among young audiences.

Dr. Yalda T. Uhls, and intern Atlas Burrus, appeared on Good Morning America to talk about how social media impacts teens’ brains.

Dr. Yalda T. Uhls highlights new research from the Center for Scholars & Storytellers showing that boys are more likely than girls to turn to media, particularly video games, for comfort during stressful times.

Dr. Yalda T. Uhls highlights the power of storytelling to make complex issues meaningful and relatable, helping audiences connect emotionally with ideas that might otherwise feel distant.

Coverage of CSS research linking authentic and inclusive representation to stronger audience connection and measurable box office performance.

Variety highlights the growing movement toward sustainability-centered storytelling in entertainment and its potential cultural impact.

Explores how youth-centered insights are influencing content development decisions across major studios.

Dr. Uhls offers practical, research-backed guidance for parents navigating technology, emphasizing connection over control.

Dr. Uhls shares insights from new research examining the long-term impact of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, revealing how lessons from the beloved children’s series continue to shape teens’ emotional and social development years later.

Dr. Uhls discusses the future of children’s television and why intentional, high-quality media matters more than ever as families navigate an increasingly crowded and algorithm-driven entertainment landscape.

Teens Want Less ‘Stoic’ Men and More Male Vulnerability in Their Movies and TV Shows: Survey

Boys want more positive masculinity. Here’s what that looks like.

Gens Z and Alpha Don’t Want to See That Rambo Bulls**t Onscreen

Teens Are Over Superheroes, Want To See More “Connected Masculinity” Onscreen, Says Survey

Gen Z Is Rejecting A Hollywood Trend That's Been Plaguing Movies Since The Birth Of Cinema

Gen Alpha and Gen Z: Evolving Masculinity

Gen Z Is Fighting Back Against 1 of Hollywood Movies' Worst Trends, Says New Study

The No. 1 Emotional Need Kids Have Isn't Acceptance or Adoration—It’s This.

Gen Alpha Consumers Value Safety and Kindness Over Fame and Popularity, UCLA Study Finds

Young people are watching movies and shows, but want relatable content

Gen Z Not Interested in Sex, Romance, or Love Triangles in Movies or TV, Study Suggests

Partnering with tech to help adolescents thrive: Q&A with Yalda Uhls

Teens Want Friendship In Stories, Preferably On YouTube

Gen Z Wants More Animation and Less Sex Onscreen, According to Teens & Screens Survey