Understanding how some children thrive despite living in disadvantaged neighborhoods

Mechanisms underlying resilience to neighborhood disadvantage

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10601548

This study is looking at why some kids from tough neighborhoods are able to thrive despite facing challenges, and it’s for families and caregivers who want to understand how to better support children who are at risk.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (EAST LANSING, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10601548 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates why some children growing up in disadvantaged neighborhoods show resilience and adaptive competence despite facing numerous challenges. By studying a sample of adolescent twin pairs, the research aims to identify the neurobehavioral pathways and protective factors that contribute to this resilience. Using advanced neuroimaging techniques, the study will explore the genetic, environmental, and epigenetic influences that help these children cope with adversity. The findings could provide insights into how to better support at-risk youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 11-16 years who live in modestly-to-severely disadvantaged neighborhoods.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in disadvantaged neighborhoods or who are outside the age range of 11-16 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and support systems for children in disadvantaged neighborhoods, enhancing their mental health and overall well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding resilience in children, but this study aims to explore novel neurobehavioral pathways that have not been extensively investigated.

Where this research is happening

EAST LANSING, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.