The Connections Research Group

Welcome to the research segment of CRSW, The Connections Research Group.

Our work focuses on understanding and improving the ways people connect — with themselves, with others, and within systems that shape wellbeing. We pursue two broad streams of research:

1. Human connection and intimacy — exploring the psychology of sexual wellbeing, attachment, and interpersonal connection. This includes investigating how intimacy, desire, and relational patterns influence mental health and quality of life.
2. Health equity and inclusion — examining how systems and services can better support sexual and gender minority populations. Our research aims to address disparities in access, care, and outcomes, with an emphasis on advancing equity in sexual and gender health.

The group is led by Dr Daniel Brown, Clinical Psychologist and Lecturer at La Trobe University in the School of Psychology and Public Health, within the Department of Psychology, Counselling, and Therapy. Daniel’s academic role includes teaching and supervising postgraduate psychology students and contributing to research that bridges clinical science, sexual health, and social justice.

At CRSW, our research is collaborative, applied, and guided by community engagement. We work with diverse partners to produce evidence that informs both clinical practice and public policy, with the goal of supporting authentic, connected, and equitable lives.

We have a variety of ongoing projects at all different levels of completion. We continue to brainstorm new and important innovations, we are collecting data on some projects, and we are writing up and publishing results of other projects. Go to our Projects section to find out more.