Exploring how social connections affect new parents and their children's health.

Social connectedness in the transition to parenthood: Implications for parent and child health and well-being

['FUNDING_R21'] · ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY-TEMPE CAMPUS · NIH-10742082

This study looks at how becoming a parent for the first time affects new moms and dads' friendships and feelings of loneliness, and how these changes can impact their mental health and their baby's growth, with the goal of finding ways to help parents feel better and support their child's development.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY-TEMPE CAMPUS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TEMPE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10742082 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the transition to parenthood impacts social connections for new mothers and fathers, and how these changes can affect their mental health and the development of their children. The study will focus on first-time parents, examining their feelings of loneliness and social connectedness during this critical period. By understanding these dynamics, the research aims to identify ways to improve caregiver well-being, which is essential for promoting positive outcomes in child development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are first-time expectant parents, both mothers and fathers, who are navigating the transition to parenthood.

Not a fit: Patients who are not first-time parents or those who are not experiencing significant changes in their social connections may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health support for new parents, ultimately benefiting child development and well-being.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on social connectedness during the transition to parenthood, related studies have shown that social support positively impacts mental health outcomes.

Where this research is happening

TEMPE, 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.