How parents' behaviors affect brain connections in children
Official title: Maternal and Paternal Behavior Associated with Parent-Child Brain Synchrony
Funded at Texas A&m University · NIH-11159144 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the way parents interact with their kids, from babies to age 11, affects their brain development and emotional growth, helping us understand better ways to support families.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $40,283 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HD118727-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11159144 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are parents or caregivers of children aged 0-11 years who are interested in understanding and improving their parenting practices.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have children or whose children are older than 11 years may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between parental behaviors and the brain synchronization of children aged 0-11 years. It focuses on understanding how both mothers and fathers respond to their children's signals and how these interactions influence child development. By examining the nuances of parental sensitivity and its impact on emotional regulation, the study aims to provide insights into effective caregiving practices. The methodology includes analyzing both verbal and nonverbal interactions between parents and children to assess their effects on brain connectivity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved parenting strategies that enhance child development and emotional well-being.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding parent-child interactions and their effects on child development, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m University
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peoples, Sarah — Texas A&m University
- Study coordinator: Peoples, 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.