Dr. Barnes-Lee conducts community-engaged, policy-relevant research that integrates theoretical frameworks and methodologies from psychology, social work, and sociology. She develops and evaluates strengths-based interventions that aim to eliminate racial/ethnic disparities in the juvenile justice system. Her research also aims to prevent juvenile justice system involvement for Black and Brown students who demonstrate a disproportionately higher risk of being referred to law enforcement in schools. Dr. Barnes-Lee’s publications primarily represent her research on racial and gender equity in the validity of juvenile risk assessment tools.