His primary line of research focuses on academic motivation and moral development during adolescence. He is particularly interested in the problem of academic dishonesty and the incongruity between moral beliefs and behaviours related to cheating, which many adolescents report experiencing. He is a co-author of two books on schooling and moral development (Educating Citizens and Creating a Culture of Academic Integrity) as well as numerous journal articles and other publications related to academic motivation, moral judgment, self-regulation, and cheating behaviour among secondary and post-secondary students. Prior to joining the Faculty of Education and Social Work in May 2012, Dr Stephens was an Assistant and Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Connecticut (2004-2012).