William V. Massey

William V. Massey, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the School of Exercise, Sport, and Health Sciences within the College of Health at Oregon State University. He is affiliated with the Psychosocial PhysicaL ActivitY (2PLAY) Laboratory and the Hallie E. Ford Center for Healthy Children & Families, where he conducts research on the role of play, physical activity, and recess in child development.

• PhD, Sport and Exercise Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
• MS, Psychosocial Kinesiology, Southern Illinois University
• BA, Sport Studies, Central Michigan University

Dr. Massey’s research centers on the intersection of play, physical activity, and youth development, with a focus on how recess quality affects social, emotional, and cognitive outcomes in elementary school children. His work extends to Sport for Development and Peace (SDP), particularly in under-resourced and conflict-affected regions. He co-edited the book Sport in Under-Resourced, Underdeveloped, and Conflict Regions, emphasizing qualitative methodologies in SDP research.

His recent publications highlight the critical role of recess in student behavior, mental health, and academic performance, with studies featured in national media and policy discussions. Themes across his work include trauma-informed youth programming, equity in physical activity access, and the integration of play into educational frameworks.

Dr. Massey is actively contributing to the scientific understanding of youth development through physical activity and play, with research supported by institutional and community partnerships. He mentors graduate students and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams focused on child well-being.

He has been involved in public outreach through media interviews, policy briefs, and community engagement initiatives, advocating for the prioritization of recess and physical activity in schools. His work is instrumental in shaping conversations around youth mental health and educational reform.

Dr. Massey leads the 2PLAY Lab, which investigates how structured and unstructured play environments influence psychosocial outcomes in children. The lab collaborates with schools and community organizations to implement and evaluate interventions that promote inclusive, high-quality recess experiences.