Kale Monk , PhD

Dr. Kale Monk is an Associate Professor in the Department of Human Development and Family Science at the University of Missouri. Dr. Monk also serves as a State Couple and Family Wellbeing Specialist for MU Extension. In addition to completing a master’s degree in Couple and Family Therapy at Kansas State University, Dr. Monk earned his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois where he specialized in relationship science. Dr. Monk’s research centers on romantic relationships and well-being – primarily focusing on how couples maintain their relationships. With over 75 publications ranging from scientific journal articles to books and book chapters, his research has been featured for millions of readers in prominent outlets like USA Today, TIME Magazine, the Chicago Tribute, the New York Post, the Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, and Psychology Today. Dr. Monk has been invited on several occasions to consult with policy makers in Washington D.C. who are working on relationship-related policies, such as the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women’s Act. Dr. monk was named a University of Missouri Engagement Scholar in 2021 and provides frequent trainings to other researchers on public engagement. For his work, Dr. Monk has received numerous accolades for his work, including awards from the National Council on Family Relations, National Health Outreach Conference, the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, The National Communication Association, The Society for the Study of Emerging Adulthood, and the International Association for Relationship Research.

Dr. Monk’s work at the Center for Family Policy and Research centers on his two program initiatives—Focus on Kids (FOK) and the Rural Community Health Outreach Partnership (RCHOP). FOK focuses on supporting parents through separation with research-informed co-parent education that promotes positive outcomes for children. RCHOP focuses on supporting rural communities through health education, family resources, and initiatives that strengthen connection, belonging, and community capacity.

Research

• Research Lab Website Focus on Kids

Areas of expertise

• Strengthening Relationships and Families
• Supporting Youth, Families, and Communities

Research Summary

Supporting parents through separation with research-informed co-parent education that promotes positive outcomes for children.