Improving secure attachment and reducing behavior problems in young children

Prevention of Attachment Insecurity, Physiological Dysregulation, and Child Behavior Problems

NIH-funded research Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-11090140

This study is looking at how to help families with young children, especially those facing challenges like low income and stress, by using a special program called Circle of Security – Parenting to strengthen their relationships and support their kids' emotional well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11090140 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to prevent insecure attachment and related behavior problems in children aged 0-11 years. It focuses on implementing the Circle of Security – Parenting (COS-P) intervention within Early Head Start programs, targeting families at risk due to factors like low income and parental stress. By evaluating this intervention, the research aims to enhance children's emotional and behavioral health through improved caregiving practices. Families participating in this program will receive support and resources to foster secure attachments and mitigate adverse effects on child development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are families with children aged 0-11 years who are enrolled in Early Head Start programs and facing challenges such as low income or parental mental health issues.

Not a fit: Families not enrolled in Early Head Start programs or those with children outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to healthier emotional and behavioral outcomes for children at risk of developing attachment issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using attachment-based interventions like COS-P, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

College Park, 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 2026-06-15 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.