Stefan-Andrei Trif
Trif Ștefan-Andrei is a recent graduate of Babeș-Bolyai University in Romania, where he successfully completed a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. Building on this foundation, he pursued his passion for the intersection of psychology and public health by obtaining a Master's degree in Public Health Psychology, with a thesis in Pharmacogenetics, at the same university. His academic journey has fostered a deep interest in both psychotherapy and psychological research, with a particular focus on neuroscience, emotions, and the subjective experiences of individuals across various physical and mental health conditions. He is currently working as a psychotherapist, where he actively contributes to the health and subjective well-being of young people. Additionally, he is involved in several research roles, exploring topics that promote individual and relational wellbeing, both in nationally and internationally funded studies. His research spans multiple age categories, including youth, with a focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, quality of life, and subjective well-being. He holds strong beliefs about the importance of a well-equipped support system that fosters the optimal development of new generations and contributes to these views indirectly through research and directly through psychotherapy.
Importance of RWB
My academic background has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the critical importance of individual cognitive factors, which distinguish between functioning and non-functioning individuals. However, I have also come to understand, both theoretically and through practice, that we are rarely just isolated individuals. People cannot be simply separated from their environments. We are knots of connections —family members, coworkers, friends, romantic partners, role models, and more. We are always part of something larger, and while we have a strong grasp on individual functioning, research is now catching up on how people operate within these broader contexts. My motivation, however, extends beyond the theoretical framework of relational well-being. Growing up, I observed firsthand how some friends or colleagues had fewer of these knot-like connections, which directly impacted their personal well-being, and at times, their overall quality of life. Yet, alongside this, I saw the potential for change: how they could achieve greater happiness and fulfillment if placed within supportive environmental contexts. This experience has fueled my keen interest in contributing to systems that foster the well-being of younger generations.