Marcella Raffaelli

Marcella Raffaelli is a Research Professor in the Department of Latina/Latino Studies at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, with an additional appointment in Human Development and Family Studies. Her work focuses on adolescent development, family dynamics, and youth program participation. She holds a dual affiliation within the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, reflecting her interdisciplinary research interests.

Her research explores parent-adolescent relationships, youth engagement in organized programs, and the socio-cultural contexts affecting marginalized youth populations. Key themes include the impact of parental separation on children, substance use among street youth, and protective factors in high-risk environments. Raffaelli employs mixed-methods approaches to examine these issues, with recent studies conducted in both US and Brazilian contexts.

Her publications from 2021-2023 consistently address youth vulnerability and resilience, emphasizing family systems and community interventions. While no specific awards are listed, her work demonstrates sustained contributions to developmental and family research. No advising/grants information is explicitly stated in the provided materials.