Understanding how social support helps youth cope with childhood trauma

The Role of Social Supports in Mitigating the Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Adolescent Psychopathology

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-11046586

This study looks at how tough experiences in childhood affect the mental health of young people, especially those from Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color, and it aims to find out what kinds of support can help them cope better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046586 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on the mental health of adolescents, particularly focusing on Black, Indigenous, and other Youth Of Color (BIYOC). It aims to identify the protective social supports that can help mitigate the negative effects of these experiences. By analyzing data collected from a diverse group of youth over several years, the study seeks to understand how these factors influence behavior and mental health outcomes. The findings could provide insights into culturally specific resilience mechanisms that support at-risk youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents aged 12-20 who have experienced adverse childhood events, particularly those from racially diverse backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced any adverse childhood events or are outside the age range of 12-20 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health interventions and support systems for adolescents who have experienced trauma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding social supports can significantly impact mental health outcomes, making this approach both relevant and promising.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, 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.