Exploring how adolescents develop empowerment to improve reproductive health

Understanding developmental trajectories among early adolescents to improve reproductive health

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10784727

This study is looking at how young teens in Kinshasa, aged 10 to 14, gain confidence and make choices about their health, so we can create better support programs for them as they grow up.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10784727 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to understand how empowerment develops among early adolescents and how it affects their sexual and reproductive health behaviors. By analyzing data collected over four years from nearly 3,000 adolescents aged 10-14 in Kinshasa, the study will track changes in agency, which includes aspects like freedom of movement and decision-making. The findings will help create better health programs tailored to the needs of boys and girls as they transition into adulthood.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 10-14, particularly those living in urban settings similar to Kinshasa.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 10-14 or those not living in similar socio-ecological environments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health programs that empower adolescents, ultimately enhancing their reproductive health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding developmental trajectories can significantly impact health interventions, suggesting this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.