Understanding how media use affects children in middle childhood

Predictors of Problematic Media Use in Middle Childhood: Project M.E.D.I.A

NIH-funded research Georgetown University · NIH-10913323

This study is looking at what might lead kids aged 6 to 11 to use media in unhealthy ways, focusing on how parenting and family relationships play a role, so we can find ways to help kids develop better media habits before they face bigger issues as they grow up.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGeorgetown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10913323 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the predictors of problematic media use in children aged 6 to 11 years. It aims to identify early signs of unhealthy media habits and how factors like parenting and the quality of parent-child relationships influence these behaviors. By studying these early interactions, the research seeks to uncover the roots of media-related issues before they escalate into more serious problems in adolescence. The findings could help in developing early interventions to promote healthier media use among children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 6 to 11 years who are experiencing difficulties with media use or whose parents are concerned about their media habits.

Not a fit: Children who do not engage with media or have no issues related to media use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that help children develop healthier relationships with media, potentially reducing the risk of addiction later in life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that early interventions can effectively address problematic behaviors in children, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Washington, 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.