NCT06695663 · University of Minnesota
Referral Training and eGen Trials
What this study is about
Child and adolescent behavioral health problems are related to the leading causes of youth morbidity and mortality. Parent-focused interventions effectively prevent behavioral health problems such as depression and conduct disorders and can provide a downstream economic benefit to society by reducing criminal activity, education costs, and health care use.
View original scientific description
Child and adolescent behavioral health problems are related to the leading causes of youth morbidity and mortality. Parent-focused interventions effectively prevent behavioral health problems such as depression and conduct disorders and can provide a downstream economic benefit to society by reducing criminal activity, education costs, and health care use. Unfortunately, parenting programs are not widely available, accessible, nor well-attended. Pediatric primary care is a non-stigmatizing setting with nearly universal reach and, therefore, an ideal contact point to increase access. However, primary care clinicians (PCCs) often have insufficient training in behavioral health topics and typical referral practices are inadequate. There are also logistical barriers to attending in-person parenting programs, like the need for childcare and a large time-commitment. There is a need to develop effective referral practices in conjunction with increasing the accessibility of parenting programs. The study long-term goal is to prevent significant behavioral health problems through widespread access to effective and accessible parenting programs through primary care referrals. In this study there are two trials: First is the primary care clinicians "PCC" trial, testing the effectiveness of referral training (aim 1). Second is the parents "eGen" trial provided by therapists, testing the effectiveness of eGen parenting intervention (aim 2).
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Referral and communication skills learning
assigned to receive a brief, live, experiential training on the referral process and communication strategies.
BEHAVIORAL
Written guide to the referral process
assigned to receive only written information about the referral process
BEHAVIORAL
Empowered Generations (eGen): parent training
eGen is a six-session parent training program provided by therapists via video chat online to parents with a child between the ages of 3-8 years.
BEHAVIORAL
control
The control condition consists of a single scripted session, in which therapists guide the parent to the following resources: (a) a book, Raising Cooperative Kids, by GenPMTO co-developer Marion Forgatch; (b) vetted parenting advice websites; (c) information about Early Childhood and Family Education classes, which are provided for free in Minnesota through public schools; and (d) a list of culturally tailored parenting advice websites.
Primary outcome measures
Child behavior problems
Time frame: 10 weeks
Child externalizing and internalizing will be measured using the Behavioral Assessment System for Children - Behavioral and Emotional Screening System (BASC-3-BESS; 29 items).
Change in parenting behavior
Time frame: 10 weeks
The Alabama Parenting Questionnaire - Preschool version (APQ; 32 items) has subscales to measure positive parenting, inconsistent parenting, and punitive parenting.
Number of Completed Referrals
Time frame: 4 years
This is defined as the number of parents who agree to begin treatment with the therapist after a referral from a primary care provider.
Parent Attendance
Time frame: 1 year
Parent attendance will be reported as the percent of sessions attended.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- The only inclusion criteria is that participants be a PCC who sees children between the ages of 3- 8 years old. PCCs must also have approval from their clinic to participate. Vulnerable populations will not be targeted from inclusion but may be included if they meet the previously stated inclusion criteria.
Exclusion criteria
- Parents would be excluded if there is a reasonable belief that participating could increase danger to a child or if they are psychologically unable to engage in the intervention activities.
Where
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Dec 15, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations