How neighborhood factors affect child brain development and school performance during COVID-19

Neighborhood characteristics and neurodevelopment: Risk and protective factors, and susceptibility to stressors and school disruption during the COVID-19 pandemic

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11086101

This study looks at how living in different neighborhoods affects kids' brain development and school success, especially during tough times like the COVID-19 pandemic, to find out what helps or hinders their growth as they grow up.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11086101 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the characteristics of neighborhoods influence the development of children's brains and their ability to succeed in school, particularly during the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on understanding the relationship between neighborhood disadvantages and changes in neurodevelopment over time, especially during adolescence, which is a critical period for brain growth. The study aims to identify both risk factors that may hinder development and protective factors that can help children thrive despite challenges. By examining these dynamics, the research seeks to provide insights into how to support vulnerable populations effectively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents aged 0-20 years living in neighborhoods identified as disadvantaged.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in neighborhoods with significant socio-economic challenges may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing child development and educational outcomes in disadvantaged neighborhoods.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that neighborhood characteristics significantly impact child development, suggesting that this study's approach is grounded in established findings.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.