Understanding violence exposure and its effects on Black and minoritized youth
Official title: Violence Exposure and Perpetration in Black and Minoritized Youth
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-10991699 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how young Black and minoritized people experience violence and the tough feelings that can come from it, like sadness and anger, and it aims to find out what stops them from getting the mental health help they need, so we can create better support and solutions for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $45,516 |
| NIH project number | 5R36MH133338-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991699 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Black and minoritized youth who have experienced violence or trauma and are struggling with mental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Black or minoritized or who have not experienced violence may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the high rates of violence exposure among Black and minoritized youth and the resulting trauma symptoms, such as suicidal thoughts and aggressive behaviors. It aims to identify the barriers these communities face in accessing effective mental healthcare and to explore the impact of current interventions, which often rely on incarceration rather than treatment. By focusing on the unique experiences of these youth, the research seeks to develop better strategies for addressing their mental health needs and reducing violence. The methodology includes analyzing existing data and community feedback to inform future interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health interventions and support systems for Black and minoritized youth, ultimately reducing violence and trauma in these communities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has highlighted the challenges faced by minoritized communities regarding violence exposure and mental health, indicating a need for innovative approaches, though this specific focus on youth is less explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Castro-Ramirez, Franchesca — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Castro-Ramirez, Franchesca
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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.