Internet-based prevention program for caregivers of foster children
Empowering Youth in Care Against (re-)Victimization (Subproject 4): A Randomized Balanced Factorial Trial Examining an Internet-based Prevention Program for Primary Caregivers
This study is testing an online program to see if it can help foster caregivers reduce the chances of their children being hurt again and improve their relationships.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 317 (estimated) |
| Ages | 8 Years to 13 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Bremen Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Bielefeld and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05235659 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines the effects of an internet-based prevention program designed for primary caregivers of preadolescent youth in care, focusing on reducing (re-)victimization. Utilizing a randomized factorial design, 317 foster caregivers will be assigned to one of 16 intervention conditions to identify the most effective components of the program. The primary outcome is the rate of (re-)victimization measured from pre- to 3-month follow-up, while secondary outcomes include risk-taking and relationship behaviors. All caregivers will gain access to the full program after the trial if no significant harm is reported.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are primary caregivers (foster or adoptive) of children aged 8 to 13 years old.
Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those facing acute child endangerment or those with insufficient German language skills.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce the risk of (re-)victimization among children in foster care by equipping their caregivers with effective strategies.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited evidence-based programming specifically for foster caregivers, similar approaches targeting childhood victimization have shown promise in other contexts.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- primary caregivers (foster or adoptive) of children aged 8 to 13 years old
Exclusion Criteria:
* acute child endangerment
* short-term foster families ("Bereitschaftspflege")
* family care ("Verwandschaftspflege")
* insufficient German language knowledge
Where this trial is running
Bielefeld and 1 other locations
- Bielefeld University — Bielefeld, Germany (Recruiting)
- University of Bremen — Bremen, Germany (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nina Heinrichs, Prof. Dr. — University of Bremen
- Study coordinator: Antonia Brühl, M.Sc.
- Email: bruehl@uni-bremen.de
- Phone: +49 421 218 68542
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.