Two honorary doctorates from the strategic theme Dynamics of Youth

On the recommendation of Dynamics of Youth, Linda Theron, professor of educational psychology at the University of Pretoria (South Africa) and Eranda Jayawickreme, professor of psychology at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem (USA), will receive an honorary doctorate from the rector magnificus on 26 March, the Dies Natalis. Linda Nimmermeer, who works for the Municipality of Utrecht, will receive an honorary doctorate in social sciences. 

Linda Theron

Prof. Linda Theron's research focuses on the resilience of young people living in difficult circumstances. The central question is what enables them to achieve better results than expected, for example in terms of social engagement, educational performance or mental health. Theron's research is distinguished by its focus on the influence of context, culture and “multisystem diversity” on young people's responses to significant stress. 

Qualitative methodologies

The professor uses qualitative and mainly art-based and mixed methodological studies with South African young people living in structurally violent communities. ‘The insight is that resilience does not only stem from individual characteristics. It also depends heavily on the connection between young people and their social, cultural and physical ecologies.’ 

Urgent and relevant

The ongoing global economic, geopolitical and climate crises demand considerable resilience from most young people, Theron observes. This makes “resilience” a responsibility for society as a whole. It also demonstrates the urgency and necessity of cooperation based on scientific accuracy, social relevance and co-creation. 

Honorary promoters

Hononary promotors are Kors van der Ent from Child Health UMCU andCatrin Finkenauer, scientific director of Dynamics of Youth. Catrin Finkenauer: “Prof. Theron’s work has helped the world to see – honestly, clearly and with compassion – how young people can find ways to thrive even in the most difficult circumstances. And what we can all do to make that possible. It has changed the way we view resilience and given us the tools to support young people in dealing with everything from inequality to the stresses of our changing planet.”

Eranda Jayawickreme

Prof. Eranda Jayawickreme's research focuses on the question of whether and how people change after adversity. He places particular emphasis on post-traumatic growth (PTG). "The popular idea is that trauma often leads to a broad positive psychological transformation. In my studies, I argue that we need to be more careful about what we mean by “growth”, how we measure growth, and what we can legitimately conclude from the evidence. It is important to distinguish between perceived growth (what people say has changed) and demonstrable growth (measurable changes in well-being, relationships, values, or personality traits)."

Approaching setbacks scientifically

Jayawickreme aims to approach stories of positive change after adversity in a scientific manner, without romanticising “adversity” and “trauma”. The goal is that the knowledge gained from this can support people in their recovery.

Honorary promotors

Honorary promoters are Jaap Denissen, chair of the Dynamics of Youth community Becoming Adults in a Changing World and Odilia Laceulle, chair of the Dynamics of Youth community Thriving & Healthy Youth.  Jaap Denissen: Prof. Jayawickreme's research into youth and character, post-traumatic growth and resilience is internationally groundbreaking. It ties in perfectly with the strategic themes of Utrecht University and builds inspiring bridges between science and society, making him a worthy recipient of an honorary doctorate.