Dr. Tsui-Sui Annie Kao is studying parent-child relationships and communication, particularly among minority and low-income families. In research and interviews she’s found that obesity, substance abuse and irresponsible sexual activity can be positively affected if parents and children talk more openly and, importantly, listen to one another. Kao has developed motivational methods to coach parents and their kids. She teaches mindfulness, using meditation techniques to defuse volatile relationships through compassion and consideration of others’ feelings and perceptions.