Behavioral parent-training with HOT DOCS and DOCS K-5 for caregivers of children ages 0–12.
Official title: DOCS Parenting: Early Years and School Years
Run by University of South Florida · NCT07505381 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This program tests whether group HOT DOCS and DOCS K-5 parent-training classes can help caregivers of children ages 0–12 reduce common challenging behaviors like tantrums, whining, and noncompliance.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 800 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of South Florida Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tampa, Florida) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 2, 2018 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2028 |
| Study ends | September 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | August 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07505381 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Caregivers or professionals aged 18 or older who care for children aged 0–12 (or children enrolled in kindergarten–5th grade) and who speak English or Spanish are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
Families who cannot attend in-person sessions in Tampa, Florida, caregivers under 18, those who do not speak English or Spanish, or children needing intensive individualized clinical services may not benefit from this group program.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Caregivers attend group-delivered HOT DOCS (for toddlers) or DOCS K-5 (for kindergarten–5th grade) classes offered in English and Spanish that teach problem-solving, prevention strategies, and positive behavior supports. The intervention is delivered in group sessions at the University of South Florida and targets caregivers and professionals who care for children aged 0–12. Outcomes tracked include caregiver-reported parenting skills, parenting stress, and child behavior problems. The programs are designed for community implementation and have been used with caregivers of children with and without special needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could reduce child behavior problems, lower caregiver stress, and improve caregiver parenting skills.
How similar studies have gone: Behavioral parent-training is a well-established approach and previous HOT DOCS/DOCS participants have reported improved parenting skills, reduced parenting stress, and fewer child behavior problems.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * caregiver or professional caring for child ages 0-12 years, or * caregiver or professional caring for a child enrolled in kindergarten-5th grade. * Must speak English or Spanish. Exclusion Criteria: * Language other than English or Spanish. * Caregiver/professional under the age of 18.
Where it's running
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University of South Florida
Tampa, Florida, United States Recruiting
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.