Tarkington J. Newman

Dr. Tarkington J. Newman is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work at the University of New Hampshire. Additionally, he holds an Affiliate Faculty position with the Department of Kinesiology and is an Affiliated Researcher for the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare Center. Dr. Newman also serves on the Mental Health Research Advisory Board for the America East Academic Consortium and is a member of the Executive Committee for the Alliance of Social Workers in Sports.

Through his scholarship, Dr. Newman is committed to serving youth populations (ages 10-24) who are socially vulnerable and/or at-risk for mental and behavioral health problems. His research has engaged populations including youth of color, youth from economically disadvantaged urban communities, and LGBTQ+ youth. Specifically, Dr. Newman's research focuses on critical positive youth development (PYD) through sport and other forms of physical activity. Using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, his research investigates mechanisms that promote life skills, social justice, and healthy masculinity, as well as the prevention of aggressive and violent behaviors. The culmination of Dr. Newman's research is related to creation of PYD-focused coach education and the use of social work practice in sport.

To date, he has published 40 peer-reviewed journal articles, presented 40 peer-reviewed international and national presentations, and helped secure over $3,584,148 in grant funding/contracts for research. In addition to his scholarship, Dr. Newman has over 13 years of experience coaching track and field, winning three high school state championships in Michigan.