Sarah Lindstrom Johnson's work takes a positive youth development approach toward identifying ways to prevent youth involvement in risk behaviors.

Her work focuses on supporting development and improving the environments in which young people learn and grow. Much of her work involves partnerships with schools, primary care clinics and community organizations. As an assistant professor in the T. Denny School of Social and Family Dynamics, she has a particular interest in understanding the consequences of exposure to violence and creating environments where violence is less likely to occur or the consequences of violence are minimized.

Lindstrom Johnson is passionate about developing solutions that are feasible and sustainable and that have the potential for impact across communities. Her work often involves trials of preventative interventions.