Research Study on Specialized Parenting Programs for Mothers

Research Center: University of Delaware
Location: Newark, DE 19716, United States
Lead Researcher: Dr. Mary Dozier
IRB Committee: This study has been reviewed and approved by the University of Delaware Institutional Review Board

Background

Some women may need to take medication-assisted treatment (treatment for opioid use) during their pregnancy. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) uses medications such as methadone or suboxone to treat substance use disorders. These medications may  improve womens’ chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

The purpose of the study is to look at the effectiveness of specialized parenting programs developed for mothers during pregnancy and in the months after their baby is born. Researchers are interested in learning how these programs may influence the brain activity, development and interactions among mothers and their babies. 

This study seeks women on medication-assisted treatment who are pregnant or have just given birth. Participants must be willing to comply with all the study requirements. Compensation will be given to eligible participants.

Why Participate? 

  • The specialized parenting program may benefit both you and your child in the future.
  • You may contribute valuable information that may help other mothers. 
  • You may be able to learn more about parenting through this specialized program.
  • You will be compensated up to $680 for participating in this study.
  • You will be helping to advance maternal and child care research.

Your Rights

  • If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you may withdraw at any time.
  • Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.

Who Can Participate?

  • Pregnant women in their second or third trimester (starting at 20 weeks and up) OR women who just gave birth within the past month.
  • Participants must be on medication-assisted treatment (treatment for opioid use, such as methadone or suboxone).
  • Participants must be able to attend 12 parenting program sessions. Parenting sessions may occur at your home or by telehealth. 
  • Participants must be able to attend 4 study visits  and provide research data until their child is 1 year. 
    • Three study visits will take place at the research site. One study visit may occur at your home or by telehealth. 
    • Participants will spend about 16.5 hours in total for the study visits (the breakdown would be two 5-to 6-hour visits, one 1- to 1.5-hour visit, and one 3-hour visit). 

About The Research Center:


University of Delaware
The University of Delaware is committed to excellence in undergraduate and graduate education, research and service. Our distinguished faculty includes internationally known authors, scientists and artists. State-of-the-art facilities support UD’s academic, research and service activities.

Please note:


Due to the current situation with COVID-19 pandemic, the study team would like to point out the following:

  • The research site/institution is taking all precautionary measures to ensure the safety of the study participants. 
  • The research team uses safety procedures, including masks, social distancing, symptom screening, and frequent sanitizing, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 
  • Study materials are sanitized between each use. Hand sanitizer is available for participants’ use. 
  • Research staff and participants are screened for symptoms of COVID-19 before coming to the research site.
  • Research staff who have symptoms of COVID-19 or who have come into close contact with someone who has COVID-19 will undergo a quarantine before coming to the research site. 
  • The study team can arrange transportation by taxi or rideshare services. If the participant drives a personal vehicle to the visit, she will be compensated for transportation. Parking is available at the research site.

What Next?

  1. Click the link below to enter your contact details and answer some eligibility questions.
  2. The research centre will then contact you by phone to discuss the trial and answer your questions.
Click Here to Check Your Eligibility

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