Understanding how social and biological changes affect mental health in adolescent girls
A prospective longitudinal study of transactional associations between social, neural, and hormonal changes and adolescent girls' mental health trajectories
This study is looking at how friendships and romantic relationships affect the mental health of girls aged 12 to 20, especially during puberty, to help understand who might struggle with anxiety and depression and who might bounce back from these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11063812 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connections between social relationships, hormonal changes, and mental health in adolescent girls aged 12 to 20. It aims to identify risk and resilience markers for mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, by examining how friendships and romantic relationships influence these conditions over time. The study will also explore the impact of puberty and brain development on mental health trajectories. By understanding these associations, the research seeks to provide insights into who may experience persistent mental health challenges versus those who may overcome them.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescent girls aged 12 to 20 who may be experiencing or are at risk for mental health issues.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those not identifying as female may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and intervention strategies for mental health issues in adolescent girls.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between social relationships and mental health, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Eugene, United States
- University of Oregon — Eugene, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pfeifer, Jennifer Hope — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Pfeifer, Jennifer Hope
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 below.