Understanding early predictors of mental health issues in children
Official title: Supplement to Prenatal and Early Life Predictors of Child Psychopathology
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11044386 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how stress and tough feelings during pregnancy might affect kids' mental health and ability to manage their emotions as they grow up, so we can find better ways to help children who might be struggling.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $18,000 |
| NIH project number | 3K01MH120507-05S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044386 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include mothers who are pregnant or have children aged 0-3 years, particularly those experiencing high levels of stress or emotional difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 3 years or those without any history of emotional or developmental concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how early childhood experiences, particularly negative emotions and stress during pregnancy, can influence the development of mental health disorders in children. By analyzing data from a large group of mothers and their children, the study aims to identify specific factors that contribute to difficulties in self-regulation and executive functioning in young children. The research will explore the connections between maternal stress, immune responses, and the emotional development of children, with the goal of improving early identification and intervention strategies for at-risk youth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better early detection and intervention strategies for children at risk of developing mental health disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between early emotional development and later mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gustafsson, Hanna C — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Gustafsson, Hanna C
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.