Preventing peer aggression and dating violence in preteens with mental health challenges

Cross-Cutting Trauma-Informed Peer Aggression and Dating Violence Prevention for Preteens Receiving Intensive Mental Health Services

NIH-funded research Rhode Island Hospital · NIH-10992953

This study is testing a supportive program designed to help preteens aged 11 to 13, who have faced tough experiences and are getting mental health help, learn how to handle conflicts better and build healthier friendships, all while reducing bullying and dating violence.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRhode Island Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10992953 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a trauma-informed intervention aimed at reducing peer aggression and preventing dating violence among preteens aged 11 to 13 who are receiving intensive mental health services. The project recognizes that a high percentage of these youth have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), which contribute to their increased risk of violence. By creating a group-based intervention that addresses both proactive and reactive aggression, the research aims to equip these young individuals with essential social skills, problem-solving abilities, and emotional regulation techniques. The intervention will be evaluated for its effectiveness in fostering healthier relationships and reducing violent behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preteens aged 11 to 13 who are receiving intensive mental health services and have experienced adverse childhood events.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving intensive mental health services or who are outside the age range of 11 to 13 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the emotional and social well-being of preteens, helping them form healthier relationships and reducing their risk of involvement in violence.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research in trauma-informed care, this specific approach targeting peer aggression and dating violence in preteens is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

Providence, 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.