Parenting skills program for mothers with postpartum depression

Effects of Attachment-Focused Parenting Intervention on Postpartum Depression and Biological Markers of Stress in Mothers and Their Infants

NA · University of Colorado, Denver · NCT05772897

This study tests whether a parenting skills program can help mothers with postpartum depression feel better and improve their relationship with their babies.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment750 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexFemale
SponsorUniversity of Colorado, Denver (other)
Locations1 site (Denver, Colorado)
Trial IDNCT05772897 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This longitudinal study investigates the effects of the Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) program on mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Over an 8-week period, participants will engage in remote sessions via Zoom, providing biological samples and completing assessments to evaluate changes in maternal depression symptoms, attachment styles, and infant social behaviors. The study aims to explore the biological mechanisms related to oxytocin receptor gene methylation and the impact of secure attachment on mother-infant relationships. Data will be collected at multiple time points to assess the efficacy of the intervention.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are mothers aged 18-50 with infants aged 3-14 months, experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression or serving as non-depressed controls.

Not a fit: Patients with severe mental health issues or infants with major medical problems may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve maternal mental health and enhance the mother-infant bond.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar parenting interventions, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Mothers aged 18-50 years old with infants aged 3-14 months old
* Mothers who are experiencing symptoms of depression and mothers who are not experiencing symptoms of depression (non-depressed controls) are encouraged to participate.

(please note that mothers who are experiencing active depression and who are not already being treated under the care of a qualified healthcare provider (i.e. through therapy or psychopharmacological intervention) will be referred for such treatment prior to being enrolled in the study. This study is not a replacement for professional management of depression or other mental health symptoms.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Mothers with severe psychopathology (such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, among others)
* Infants with major medical problems that may interfere with a mother's ability to participate in and benefit from the intervention

Where this trial is running

Denver, Colorado

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Postpartum Depression

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.