Institute for Social Research

Since its establishment in 1948, the Research Center for Group Dynamics’ mission has been to advance the understanding of human behavior in social contexts; making clear the linkages between an individual’s psychological life and the life of the society to which the individual belongs.

Latest News

University of Michigan Launches 25-Year Follow-Up to Landmark National Survey of American Life

Graphic image of a tree labeled National Survey of American Life, with branches representing the original 2001-2003 study alongside the 25-year follow-up
Researchers seek to reconnect with original participants to study cognitive aging and health among AmericansANN ARBOR, Mich. — The University of Michigan is launching an ambitious 25-year follow-up to the National Survey of American Life (NSAL), one of the most significant studies of the health and well-being of Black Americans ever conducted. Researchers will reconnect with as many of the more than 7,000 original participants as possible to explore how… Learn more about University of Michigan Launches 25-Year Follow-Up to Landmark National Survey of American Life >

September 16, 2026

RCGD Celebrates Rich Gonzalez’s Legacy of Leadership

This week, the Research Center for Group Dynamics (RCGD) gathered for its inaugural monthly community lunch with a… >>

September 16, 2026

What ‘praising addiction’ looks like

EXPERT Q&A ANN ARBOR—What if, instead of shaming people for their addictions, we embraced the idea that we… >>

September 3, 2026

U-M piano students fight stage fright with VR  

ANN ARBOR—As you walk onto the stage to perform a piano solo, you hear the echo of your… >>
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RCGD Highlights

The Research to Practice Lab (R2P)

ANCHRR Researchers deplaning in rural Alaska

Led by Dr. Lisa Wexler, the Research to Practice (R2P) Lab reflects a participatory research program that is animated by community and interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific, cultural and local knowledges, and reciprocal relationships. Learn more about R2P

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Events

New! RCGD Monthly Lunches

Save the dates for community RCGD lunches this Fall 2026: Sept. 14, Oct. 26, and Nov. 30 from 12 to 1:30 in Room 6050. The Sept. 14 event honors Richard Gonzalez, who led the center for 11 years.

Group Dynamics Seminar Series

The Group Dynamics Seminar series is considered one of the longest running seminar series in the social sciences. Its organizer/s and theme rotate every semester on topics chosen by faculty organizer/s who are affiliated with the Research Center for Group Dynamics at the Institute for Social Research, with seminars held Mondays from 3:30 to 5. Fall seminars will be in ISR Thompson Room 6050. Read more about Group Dynamics Seminar Series >

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Featured Faculty

Sela Panapasa

Sela V Panapasa

ASSOCIATE RESEARCH SCIENTIST

Linda Chatters

Linda Chatters

FACULTY ASSOCIATE

Amie M Gordon

Amie M Gordon

FACULTY ASSOCIATE

Pamela Davis-Kean

Pamela Davis-Kean

RESEARCH PROFESSOR

Matt Diemer

Matt Diemer

FACULTY ASSOCIATE

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