Our work unlocks the power of storytelling to help the next generation thrive and grow
What We Do
CSS works with leading social scientists to develop research insights and tools that are useful for content creators crafting authentic and inclusive stories for youth (ages 2-25). We work with a wide range of organizations from traditional media, tech and gaming, consumer products, and public health and education. When content is created from a research-informed perspective that is authentic and inclusive, it can deliver strong financial returns and support the mental health of the next generation so they can thrive and grow.
Categories
We develop workshops that are customized to meet the needs of your team. Our presenters deliver research-driven presentations that will help you generate content that supports positive development.
CSS develops easy to read, well-designed short reports and content development tools with research-based insights targeted to content creators.
CSS provides a myriad of resources including research reports, tip sheets, articles, and livestreams and podcasts to help storytellers incorporate research-based insights into their creative process.
CSS designs social and emotional curriculum and conducts curriculum evaluation to support content on television shows and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Featured Work
Mental Health Focus
CSS is working to build on the Youth Mental Health Advisory released by the U.S. Surgeon General’s office and employ communication and narrative change strategies more proactively than prior community change initiatives had done—or have been able to do. In 2022, CSS partnered with Ninja and Wondermind to promote positive mental health outcomes in young people. The Scholars & Storytellers Summit 2022 took this work a step further and approached the nuances of mental health representation in media from our research-informed perspective.
DEIA Focus
CSS has researched the effect that the presence of Authentically Inclusive Representation (AIR) in films has on box office performance. Our first report launched in Fall 2020 showed that large-budget films lost up to $32M opening weekend when they lacked AIR. Our follow-up report released in Spring 2022 in partnership with CAA confirmed these findings.