Exploring the benefits of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy

A Mixed-Methods Approach Utilizing Self-Report Scales and Oxytocin Levels to Determine the Potential Benefits of Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)

Observational University of Florida · NCT06827951

This study is trying to see if Parent-Child Interaction Therapy can help parents and their young children with behavior issues feel less stressed and improve their emotional well-being.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 89 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Florida Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Gainesville, Florida and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06827951 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the potential benefits of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) on parents and their children aged 2-7 years with behavioral concerns. Participants will complete a series of online surveys before, during, and after the PCIT program to assess autonomic reactivity, stress levels, and attachment. The study will also explore how individual characteristics influence the effectiveness of PCIT in improving parental stress and emotional wellbeing. By measuring neuroendocrine functioning and self-reported mental health, the study seeks to understand the mechanisms behind PCIT's impact.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are parents of children aged 2-7 years who are experiencing behavioral concerns and are willing to engage in the PCIT program.

Not a fit: Parents with severe mental health disorders or children requiring different interventions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved mental health outcomes for parents and better parent-child relationships.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, indicating that this approach is supported by existing evidence.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Parents of children aged 2-7 years old who are eligible for Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) based on behavioral concerns.
* The primary caregiver of the child and be actively involved in the child's daily care.
* Willing to attend all PCIT sessions and complete pre-, mid- and post-intervention assessments.
* Fluent in English to ensure comprehension of the intervention and assessment materials.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Parents with diagnosed severe mental health disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder) that may interfere with participation in PCIT.
* Children with conditions that require interventions other than PCIT (e.g., severe developmental disabilities).
* Parents who have previously participated in PCIT are excluded to avoid confounding results.

Where this trial is running

Gainesville, Florida and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Autonomic DysregulationAnxietyDepressionParent-Child RelationsPolyvagal TheoryAdversityParent-Child Interaction TherapyAttachment
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.