How parent and child emotions and behaviors work together in families with and without depression
Parent-child synchrony in depressed and non-depressed dyads: A multi-modal investigation
This study looks at how parents and their kids respond to each other during tough situations, especially when a parent has struggled with depression, to better understand their emotional connections and find ways to help kids manage their feelings.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10580509 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the coordination of behaviors, emotions, and physiological responses between parents and their children, particularly focusing on how these interactions differ in families where a parent has a history of depression. By observing parent-child dyads during challenging tasks, the study aims to measure synchrony in their responses and identify how parental depression affects this dynamic. The research employs a multi-method approach, including behavioral observations and physiological assessments, to gain a comprehensive understanding of these interactions. The findings could help in developing strategies to improve emotional regulation skills in children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include children aged 8-10 and their biological parents, especially those with a history of depression.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have children or whose children are outside the age range of 8-10 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved emotional regulation strategies for children, particularly those from families affected by parental depression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding parent-child interactions can lead to significant improvements in emotional and behavioral outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Kent, United States
- Kent State University — Kent, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Black, Sarah — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Black, Sarah
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 below.