Lenna’s research interests are broadly focused on how poverty and inequality impact child and family health and well-being. One line of her work examines the impact of social policies, particularly related to fathers and child support, on the well-being of families and children. She has also conducted research that examines socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities in child health and development.

Lenna’s current and recently funded research projects focus on understanding the effects of nonresident fathers on children’s food insecurity and the well-being of children in immigrant families who have a nonresident father.