Our Approach

The goal of this study is to test a program to support healthy romantic relationships for young parents. The program is called Safe Dates for Young Parents.

Who is eligible?

  • People who are ages 14 to 21 years.

  • People who are assigned female at birth.

  • People who are currently pregnant or parenting their child who lives with them at least part-time.

  • People who are able to speak and read English.

What does the study involve?

  • The study includes completing 3 surveys over 1 year.  

    • For each survey, participants will be asked to answer questions that will take up to 30 minutes to complete. Participants will receive gift cards for their time.

  • Participants will be randomly assigned by chance – like the flip of a coin – to one of two study groups: 1) the Safe Dates for Young Parents program, plus usual services for pregnant and parenting youth; or 2) usual services for pregnant and parenting youth (e.g., case management and supplemental services). The program will take place in-person over multiple small group sessions. The program sessions will talk about healthy relationship skills including topics like communication and violence in relationships. The total time for all the sessions is ~10 hours.

Where is the study being conducted?

  • This study is being done in multiple places in Georgia, Michigan, and North Carolina. Please see our partners page for more information.

What is the risk to participating?

  • We do not expect this study to present any more risk than experienced in day-to-day life. Some sections of the survey will focus on personal topics that may make participants feel uncomfortable (e.g. relationships, sexual health). Participants are free to refuse to answer any questions.

  • If participants are assigned to the Safe Dates for Young Parents study group, we ask everyone to respect the privacy of what is said in the discussion and not share it with others. But we cannot promise this will happen.

Do I have to commit to a whole year if I sign up?

  • The study is 12-months long. Taking part in this study is voluntary. Participants can choose to stop taking part at any time.