Connecting first-time expectant fathers through social media to enhance family health
Official title: Adapting text4FATHER to directly link to first-time expectant fathers using social media to improve infant and family health
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10722683 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a helpful texting program called text4FATHER that sends first-time dads useful tips and support about taking care of their baby from pregnancy to two months after birth, making it easier for them to feel confident and involved in parenting.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 4, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $461,662 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD112617-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10722683 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are first-time expectant fathers, particularly those with lower education levels, residing in the Baltimore area.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not first-time expectant fathers or those who do not reside in the targeted geographic area may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to improve the health and well-being of infants and families by engaging first-time expectant fathers through a mobile health intervention called text4FATHER. The program sends tailored text messages to fathers, providing them with essential information and resources about infant care from mid-pregnancy to two months after birth. By utilizing social media and mobile technology, the initiative seeks to increase fathers' confidence and involvement in parenting, addressing the gaps in support they often experience. The messages are designed to be easily understood and relevant to the fathers' specific situations, ensuring they receive the right information at the right time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the involvement of fathers in infant care, leading to better health outcomes for both infants and parents.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that engaging fathers during the prenatal and early infant periods can lead to improved outcomes, indicating that this approach has potential based on established findings.
Where this research is happening
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Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marcell, Arik V — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Marcell, Arik V
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.