Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family

The Pontifical John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family stands as a vital resource dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering understanding of marriage, family life, and related challenges across North America. Established in Washington, D.C., District of Columbia, the institute functions as a central hub representing the Catholic Church’s commitment to promoting positive values surrounding families. Located within McGivney Hall, the institute offers a diverse portfolio of research, education, and practical assistance aimed at enriching the lives of individuals, couples, and communities impacted by family dynamics, with a particular focus on assisting individuals and families in navigating issues connected to faith-based relationships. The Institute is affiliated with the University of St. Joseph School of Theology and Marriage Counseling.

The institute’s core mission centers around evidence-based research across multiple disciplines, including psychology, sociology, family studies, and theology. It has a strong focus on understanding the impact of social, cultural, and economic factors on marital satisfaction, parenting practices, family structures, and overall well-being for individuals of various religious backgrounds. The Institute engages in collaborative initiatives with academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and community agencies throughout the region to address prevalent difficulties impacting families through research. A significant portion of the institute’s resources are dedicated to supporting students, faculty, and staff pursuing advanced degrees related to family studies and marriage and family therapy.

The Institute's activities extend beyond pure research; it also provides workshops, training programs, and mentorship opportunities. These offerings cater to a broad range of audiences, from families seeking support and strategies for navigating challenging relationships, to educators interested in incorporating effective teaching methods into their curriculum, to professionals aiming to strengthen their understanding of familial dynamics and best practices. The Institute prides itself on its commitment to fostering collaboration, building community, and empowering individuals with the tools they need to build more resilient, stable, and fulfilling families. The Institute maintains a commitment toward the support of students in fields such as theology, sociology, psychology, and family studies.

Currently, the institute has 90 published research papers across various disciplines and over 109 cited citations representing years of dedicated work. Furthermore, the Institute boasts a considerable number of faculty members with distinguished expertise and contributions to the field. Through targeted initiatives, the Institute invests in programs aimed at disseminating knowledge, advocating for policies that support families, and engaging with diverse communities. A crucial aspect is the institute’s ability to nurture graduates and associate scholars, offering opportunities for professional development through mentorship and academic recognition. The institution operates on a strategic plan centered around increasing research impact while simultaneously fostering community engagement and expanding programming to better serve its target audiences -- creating an environment where all stakeholders are equipped with critical knowledge to make positive impacts in families, communities and our society.