Understanding how father-focused therapy can reduce family violence and help children.

Examining Therapeutic Change Mechanisms in an Affect Regulation, Father-Focused Intervention for Reducing Family Violence and Associated Symptoms in Children

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11098743

This study is testing a program called Fathers for Change, which helps dads who have been involved in partner violence learn to manage their feelings and become better parents, all to create happier families and support their kids' well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098743 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a new intervention called Fathers for Change (F4C), which aims to help fathers who have been involved in intimate partner violence (IPV) and improve their relationships with their children. The program focuses on helping fathers identify and manage their emotions to reduce aggressive behaviors and enhance parenting skills. By addressing the emotional and relational dynamics within families, the intervention seeks to mitigate the negative effects of IPV on children, particularly those under 11 years old. The study will assess the effectiveness of this approach in improving family interactions and child mental health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are fathers who have a history of intimate partner violence and have children aged 0-11 years.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have children or whose children are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant improvements in the mental health and well-being of children exposed to family violence.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in similar father-focused interventions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.