Investigating how prenatal and early childhood programs can prevent child maltreatment

The unique and combined effects of prenatal and early childhood programming on child maltreatment: Examining mechanisms of change

NIH-funded research University of Notre Dame · NIH-10997537

This study is looking at how special programs for pregnant moms and young kids can help prevent child abuse and neglect by improving how parents connect with their children and addressing issues like partner violence.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Notre Dame NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Notre Dame, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997537 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how programs during pregnancy and early childhood can help prevent child maltreatment, which includes abuse and neglect. It aims to enhance maternal sensitivity and address intimate partner violence (IPV) as key factors in promoting healthy parent-child relationships. The study will utilize a multi-site, randomized controlled trial design to evaluate two specific programs: the Pregnant Moms’ Empowerment Program for expectant mothers exposed to IPV and the Reminiscing and Emotion Training program for children aged 3-6. By assessing these interventions, the research seeks to identify effective strategies for reducing the risk of child maltreatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are pregnant women exposed to intimate partner violence and their children aged 3-6 years.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or whose children are older than 6 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective prevention programs that significantly reduce the incidence of child maltreatment.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeted interventions during pregnancy and early childhood can effectively reduce risks associated with child maltreatment, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Notre Dame, 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.