René Veenstra is a Professor in the Department of Sociology/ICS at the University of Groningen, Netherlands. His research focuses on bullying, peer relationships, mental health, and social development in children and adolescents. He has contributed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to mental health and child welfare. He is a member of the Koninklijke Hollandsche Maatschappij der Wetenschappen (KHMW) and has received awards for his work on prosocial relationships, romantic relationships, and social networks in youth. His research emphasizes the importance of peer influence in interventions, classroom environments, and anti-bullying programs like KiVa and GRIPP. He has led collaborative projects across multiple countries. Contributed to datasets such as KiVa Anti-Bullying Program (Waves 1-5), PRIMS, and SNARE. Engaged in public lectures and workshops addressing bullying prevention strategies and the role of social networks in behavioral development. His work also explores the impact of fatherhood on reoffending post-prison and examines how social norms shape adolescent behavior in schools. Has supervised 24 academic works and actively participates in peer-review activities. Collaborates with international researchers and institutions. He is involved in the 'GUTS' team science project to predict societal trajectories in adolescence and young adulthood.









