Understanding the genetic factors behind aggressive behavior in children
Official title: Genomic mechanisms of violent juvenile aggression
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11167278 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at what causes aggressive behavior in kids by using a special type of frog that shows a lot of aggression, and it aims to help us understand how both genes and the environment play a role in this behavior and its effects on everyone involved.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $396,172 |
| NIH project number | 7R35GM147207-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11167278 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are children aged 0-11 years who exhibit signs of aggressive behavior or are at risk of developing such behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are older than 11 years or do not exhibit aggressive behaviors may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms that contribute to violent aggressive behavior in children, using a novel animal model of poison frog juveniles known for their aggression. By observing and manipulating these models, the research aims to uncover how genetic and environmental factors influence aggression and its consequences. The study will explore individual differences in aggression and the long-term effects of aggressive experiences on both aggressors and victims. This integrative approach combines various methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of juvenile aggression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better interventions and prevention strategies for aggressive behavior in children, ultimately improving outcomes for affected individuals and society.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach using poison frogs is novel, similar research in understanding aggression through animal models has shown promising results in the past.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fischer, Eva K — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Fischer, Eva K
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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.