Research & Impact

THE DATA BEHIND THE WORK.

US-Squared programs are built on peer-reviewed research, longitudinal data, and the lived experiences of the 7,000+ young people whose stories shaped our framework.

0+
Youth Studied in Peer-Reviewed Research
0+
Program Domains
0+
Years in Education
0+
Peer-Reviewed Studies
Publications

PEER-REVIEWED WORK

Journal Article · 2023

Ten Frequently Asked Questions About Latent Transition Analysis

Nylund-Gibson, K., Garber, A. C., Carter, D. B., Chan, M., Arch, D. A., Simon, O., ... & Lawrie, S. I. (2023). Ten frequently asked questions about latent transition analysis. Psychological Methods, 28(2), 284.

Foundational methodological reference for latent transition analysis — the statistical approach underlying research on adolescent mental health profiles and trajectory shifts.

Doctoral Dissertation · 2023

Unraveling Hopelessness: A Latent Class Analysis of Mental Health Profiles Among Black Adolescents

Tartt, E. L. (2023). Unraveling Hopelessness: A latent class analysis of mental health profiles among Black adolescents. University of California, Santa Barbara. GPA: 3.98.

Identified four distinct mental health profiles among Black youth, challenging deficit-based narratives and informing the BASE framework.

Book / Practice Publication · 2026

Feelings Unplugged: A Guided Journal for Understanding Your Emotions

Tartt, E. L. (2026). Feelings Unplugged. US-Squared Research Institute. Available via IngramSpark and direct from the author.

A BASE Framework companion publication translating peer-reviewed research on adolescent emotional suppression into an accessible guide for youth and the adults who support them.

Learn More →
The Framework

THE BASE FRAMEWORK

Four principles derived from dissertation research and 20+ years of educational practice. BASE is the conceptual spine running through every US-Squared program.

Brilliance

Every young person arrives with a form of genius. Our programs are designed to surface, name, and build on that brilliance — not remediate deficits.

Authenticity

Youth are most engaged and resilient when allowed to show up as their full selves. Authenticity is not a soft skill — it is a developmental necessity.

Self-Expression

Art, writing, movement, and voice are not supplements to learning — they are the primary vehicles through which young people process, integrate, and share their experiences.

Empowerment

Programs must transfer agency, not create dependency. Everything we build is designed to make itself unnecessary — because self-determination is the goal.

Impact Brief

DOWNLOAD THE BRIEF

One-page summary of our research, outcomes, and program data. Ideal for funders, partners, and program evaluators.

Coming SoonContact for Partnership