Exploring how parenting affects infant brain development and self-control

Investigating Links Between Dysfunctional Parenting and Infant Brain Connectivity on Development of Effortful Control

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10975033

This study is looking at how different parenting styles can affect babies' ability to control their emotions and behaviors, and it aims to see how these parenting behaviors influence the way their brains connect and develop as they grow.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10975033 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between dysfunctional parenting and the development of effortful control in infants, focusing on how parenting behaviors influence brain connectivity. It aims to understand how deficits in parenting sensitivity and maternal mind-mindedness impact the brain's structure and function during critical developmental periods. By studying a cohort of infants, the research will track changes in brain connectivity and self-regulation abilities over time, providing insights into the early influences of caregiving on child development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are infants aged 2 to 3 years who are experiencing challenges related to self-regulation and whose caregivers may exhibit dysfunctional parenting behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who are older than 3 years or those without identifiable issues related to self-regulation or dysfunctional parenting may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions for enhancing self-regulation skills in children, potentially reducing the risk of psychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of parenting on child development, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.