How parental history of suicidal behavior affects children during middle to late childhood
Official title: Effects of parental history of suicidal behavior on middle/late childhood: Longitudinal assessment of early markers of suicide risk
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11030262 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how having a parent who has struggled with suicidal thoughts or actions affects kids aged 7 to 15, by following two groups of children over four years to see how they handle emotions, think, and if they have any thoughts about suicide, all to help find ways to support them better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $401,416 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH125905-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030262 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 7 to 15 years, particularly those with a parental history of suicidal behavior.
✕Less likely to help
Children without any familial history of suicidal behavior may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of having a parent with a history of suicidal behavior on children aged 7 to 15 years. It involves following two groups of children—those with a parental history of suicidal behavior and those without—over a four-year period to assess various factors such as emotional regulation, cognitive function, and suicidal thoughts. The study aims to identify early markers of suicide risk in these children, which could help in developing preventive strategies. Participants will undergo annual assessments to track changes in their mental health and behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved early identification and intervention strategies for children at risk of suicide.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding familial risk factors can significantly enhance early intervention strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sheftall, Arielle Hope — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Sheftall, Arielle Hope
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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.