Supervisor: Dr. Paula Mayock

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Nationality: American

Working title of PhD: Understanding substance use pathways, trajectories, and perspectives among young individuals in deprived areas of Dublin.

Description of Research: The primary aim of this research is to investigate the drug use behaviours, attitudes, and experiences of young adults (aged 18-25 years) in economically deprived areas of Dublin City. The study will explore how young people navigate drug availability, focusing on their decision-making, motivations, and perceptions of the risks and benefits of substance use. It will also interrogate key life events, such as family, school, and peer relationships, that influence drug use behaviours, while also examining risk and protective factors, gaps in access to care, and the circumstances and experiences that shape young people’s substance use trajectories.

Funder of the research: Trinity Research Doctorate Award

Publications:

•  Keogh-Clark, , Whaley, R. C., Leventhal, A. M., & Krueger, E. A. (2021). Sex differences in the association between parental monitoring and substance use initiation among adolescents. Addictive Behaviors, 122, 107024.
• Bogart, S., Keogh F., Kunzel, C., Morris, M., Ga Young, S.,& Zhang, B., (2026). Dental student preparedness to work with patients who have diverse identities and experiences. Submitted to the journal of Dental Education, in press.