Brenda Jones Harden

Brenda Jones Harden is a Professor in the Department of Human Development and Quantitative Methodology at the University of Maryland College Park. She serves as director of the PEARL lab and brings over 35 years of expertise in early childhood policy, practice, and research. Her work focuses on addressing the developmental and mental health needs of young children at environmental risk, particularly those exposed to maltreatment or trauma.

Education

• Doctoral degree in Developmental and Clinical Psychology from Yale University
• Master in Social Work (MSW) from New York University

Dr. Jones Harden’s research emphasizes preventing maladaptive outcomes through early childhood programs, with evaluations spanning early care and education, home visiting services, parenting interventions, and infant mental health initiatives. Further details about her work can be found on the PEARL Lab website.

Labs & Teams

• Director of the PEARL lab