Understanding how mentor traits can help children of incarcerated parents avoid substance use

The impact of mentor characteristics on mitigating substance use outcomes among children of incarcerated caregivers

NIH-funded research Innovation Research and Training, INC. · NIH-10931347

This study looks at how different qualities in mentors can help kids with incarcerated parents, who often face tough challenges, by figuring out what makes mentors most effective in supporting them and reducing issues like substance use.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionInnovation Research and Training, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931347 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mentor characteristics in supporting children of incarcerated parents, a group facing significant challenges such as family instability and stigma. By analyzing data from over 1,300 children and their mentors across various mentoring programs, the study aims to identify which traits in mentors are most effective in reducing negative outcomes like substance use. The research will focus on understanding how these mentors can provide essential support and guidance to these vulnerable youth. The findings could help improve mentoring programs and better support children in similar situations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who have a caregiver that has been incarcerated.

Not a fit: Children whose caregivers have never been incarcerated may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective mentoring programs that significantly reduce substance use among children of incarcerated parents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that mentoring can positively impact youth outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

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.