The impact of net worth poverty on children's development

Net Worth Poverty and Children's Development

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10676192

This study looks at how having low net worth, even if families aren't considered income poor, impacts children's thinking and behavior, especially focusing on different racial and ethnic groups, and it also explores how the Earned Income Tax Credit might help improve kids' lives.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10676192 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how net worth poverty (NWP) affects children's cognitive and behavioral outcomes, particularly focusing on children from families with low net worth despite not being classified as income poor. The study aims to identify the relationship between NWP and child development, exploring how these factors differ across racial and ethnic groups. By examining the role of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in alleviating the effects of NWP, the research seeks to provide insights into effective policy interventions that can support children's well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children aged 0-11 years from families identified as net worth poor, particularly those from African American and Hispanic backgrounds.

Not a fit: Children from families that are not classified as net worth poor or income poor may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved policies that better address the needs of children living in net worth poverty, enhancing their developmental outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While the focus on net worth poverty is relatively novel, previous research has shown that economic factors significantly impact child development, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.