Parent-focused prevention program for child sexual abuse

Parent-focused Primary Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse: An Effectiveness-implementation Hybrid Trial

Not applicable Interventional New York University · NCT05976867

This study tests a new program for parents called Smart Parents to see if it helps them better protect their children from sexual abuse compared to regular parenting support.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages15 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNew York University Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT05976867 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial tests the effectiveness of a parent-focused prevention program called Smart Parents, delivered to parents enrolled in the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program. The study aims to improve parents' awareness and protective behaviors related to child sexual abuse (CSA) compared to those receiving standard PAT services. It employs a stepped wedge cluster randomized trial design, where clusters of participants will sequentially transition from control to intervention, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of both effectiveness and implementation strategies. Follow-up assessments will occur at 12 and 24 months to evaluate the retention of knowledge and behaviors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are parents currently enrolled in the Parents as Teachers program who have at least one child over 12 months old.

Not a fit: Parents who are not enrolled in the Parents as Teachers program or who have previously received more than three foundational sessions will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance parents' ability to protect their children from sexual abuse.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in similar parent-focused interventions for child protection, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* One parent per household that is currently enrolled in PAT qualified to receive bi-weekly visits;
* English or Spanish speaking;
* Has at least one child at home over 12-mo;
* Only newly enrolled parents (i.e., parents who have not received more than 3 of the PAT foundational sessions).

Exclusion Criteria:

* Not currently enrolled in PAT;
* Not English or Spanish speaking;
* Does not have a child over 12-mo old;
* Previously enrolled in PAT (i.e., parents who have received more than 3 of the PAT foundational sessions)

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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 Child Sexual Abuseprimary preventionchild sexual abuseimplementation science
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.