Understanding how difficult childhood experiences affect reading

Identifying neurocognitive correlates of reading impacted by adversity exposure

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11129759

This project looks at how tough childhood experiences might change brain processes that are important for reading in children and teenagers.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-11129759 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Many children and teenagers struggle with reading, and we know that difficult childhood experiences can affect their development. This project aims to understand if these experiences change how the brain processes information, which could then impact reading skills. We will look at existing information from a large study to see how memory, focus, and problem-solving skills connect to reading abilities in young people who have faced adversity. Our goal is to find clear links between these factors to help improve reading support.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This research is relevant for children and adolescents, particularly those aged 6-20, who have experienced adversity and are facing reading challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have reading difficulties or a history of adverse childhood experiences may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us develop better ways to support children and teenagers who have reading difficulties due to challenging life experiences.

How similar studies have performed: This project aims to bridge gaps in our understanding, as the direct link between adverse childhood experiences, neurocognitive changes, and reading outcomes has not been formally studied in this way.

Where this research is happening

University 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 2026-06-09 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.