Title(s): Assistant Professor
Department: Epidemiology
Office: S427 CPHB
Phone: (319) 467-4360
Dr. Platt’s research integrates social theory with causal inference methods to better understand how systems of social stratification influence mental health disorders and disparities. His ongoing research includes:
- how the deployment of gender influences the risk of depression, suicide, and substance use disorders;
- the multilevel socio-developmental causes adolescent mental health and suicide; and
- the development and application of novel methods for quantitative intersectionality research.
He also has partnerships to understand gender-based violence and traumatic experiences in several Sub-Saharan African countries.
Research Interests
- Social determinants of health and health inequities
- Psychiatric epidemiology
- Depression, anxiety disorders
- Suicide and suicidal behaviors
- Alcohol and substance use
- Child and adolescent health
- Causal inference, latent variable, and machine-learning methods
Background
In the News
- Platt discusses suicide trends in Iowa
- Platt to speak in UI Upstream Lecture Series Nov. 20
- Platt comments on proposed social media health warning
- Platt studies how pro-family workplace benefits can affect women’s mental health
- ‘SCREENAGERS: Growing Up in the Digital Age’ documentary viewing and conversation
- Platt discusses high U.S. suicide rates
- Platt comments on rise in suicide rates
- New UI research examines evidence of rising youth mental health concerns
- Journal ranks Platt article as one of 2022’s best