Janette Watkins

Janette Watkins is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Penn State University, with an affiliate appointment at the Child Study Center. Her research focuses on community-based interventions for youth physical activity and digital wellness, integrating neuroscience and kinesiology methodologies.

• Dual-Ph.D. (2025) - Human Performance & Neural Sciences, Indiana University
• M.Ed. (2021) - Kinesiology, University of Virginia
• B.A. (2020) - Neuroscience, Transylvania University

Watkins specializes in:

• Community-based, co-designed interventions for youth health
• Family dynamics influencing child self-regulation
• Interdisciplinary methods combining eye tracking (neuroscience) and accelerometry (kinesiology)
• Psychosocial/environmental factors affecting screen time and well-being

Her recent publications examine screen time anxiety in youth, strength training feasibility, and inclusive sports practices. She collaborates with the Social Science Research Institute and focuses on implementation strategies for rural school environments.