Promoting positive peer relationships and reducing childhood prejudice

An Intervention to Promote Positive Peer Relationships and Reduce Prejudice and Bias in Childhood

NIH-funded research Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-10442433

This study is all about helping kids in 3rd to 5th grade make friends and get along better by teaching them to appreciate and understand classmates from different backgrounds, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety and loneliness.

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-10442433 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to improve relationships among children by reducing prejudice and bias through a structured intervention in schools. It will involve a randomized control trial where 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders participate in activities designed to foster positive interactions with peers from diverse backgrounds. The project focuses on addressing the negative health impacts of discrimination, such as anxiety and social withdrawal, by promoting understanding and acceptance among children. By creating a supportive environment, the research seeks to enhance children's overall well-being and academic performance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children in 3rd to 5th grade, particularly those who may experience or perpetuate bias in school settings.

Not a fit: Children outside the 3rd to 5th grade age range or those not in school environments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to healthier social interactions among children, reducing instances of bullying and discrimination.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that interventions promoting positive peer interactions can effectively reduce prejudice and improve social dynamics among children.

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 2026-06-10 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.