Investigating how pain relates to childhood adversity and mental health
Examining the Role of Pain in the Link Between Early Childhood Adversity and Psychopathology
This study is testing how early tough experiences affect pain and mental health in kids aged 6.5 to 9.5 years, and whether having a parent nearby can help them feel less pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 9 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Saint Louis, Missouri) |
| Trial ID | NCT06445712 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore the connection between physical pain, early childhood adversity, and later mental health issues in children aged 6.5 to 9.5 years. Participants will undergo a cold pressor test, where they will submerge their hand in cold water, both alone and while holding a parent's hand, to assess the impact of parental support on pain response. The study will measure self-reported pain and salivary cortisol levels to understand the physiological and psychological effects of adversity. It is hypothesized that children with more adverse experiences will show heightened pain sensitivity and psychopathology symptoms, while parental support may mitigate these effects.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 6.5 to 9.5 years who are enrolled in the ongoing CARE study and experiencing familial stress.
Not a fit: Patients who have not participated in the CARE study will not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to interventions that enhance parental support, potentially reducing pain sensitivity and mental health issues in children.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking pain sensitivity with parental support in this context may be novel, related studies have shown success in exploring the effects of early adversity on child development.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Subjects who have been enrolled in our ongoing CARE study Exclusion Criteria: * Subjects who have not participated in the CARE study
Where this trial is running
Saint Louis, Missouri
- Laboratory for Child Brain Development — Saint Louis, Missouri, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Susan Perlman, PHD
- Email: PERLMANSUSAN@wustl.edu
- Phone: 3142738403
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.