How parental involvement affects child development in low-income families

Parental Well-Being and Child Development

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11050368

This study is looking at how getting both moms and dads involved in parenting programs can help kids grow and develop better, especially in families from low- and middle-income countries, by encouraging caring behaviors and reducing harsh discipline.

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-11050368 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of engaging both parents in parenting interventions to improve child development outcomes in low- and middle-income countries. It focuses on promoting responsive caregiving and reducing harsh discipline by involving fathers alongside mothers. The study aims to assess whether whole-family behavioral changes can lead to more significant and lasting improvements in children's development. By addressing the dynamics of family support, the research seeks to understand how to sustain positive impacts over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are families with children under the age of 5 living in low- and middle-income countries.

Not a fit: Families not residing in low- and middle-income countries or those without children under 5 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved developmental outcomes for children in low-income families by fostering better parenting practices.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that parenting interventions can improve child development outcomes, but this approach of engaging both parents is relatively novel.

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.