Actively Recruiting
Evaluating an Adverse Childhood Experience-Targeting Advocate Model of a Substance Use Prevention Program: A Hybrid Type 1 Effectiveness-Implementation Trial
Led by RTI International ยท Updated on 2026-05-05
360
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
47 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
R
RTI International
Lead Sponsor
N
New Jersey Prevention Network
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating a prevention-based intervention aimed at reducing the harms of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and preventing future ACEs, substance use, and overdose in 36 communities facing high rates of these issues. This study uses a cluster randomized controlled trial to compare the Strengthening Families Program (SFP) combined with Family Advocates (FAs) versus SFP alone. The research also explores factors affecting implementation and examines the costs and cost-effectiveness of the combined intervention, providing guidance to better support affected communities. The study compares two groups: one receiving the SFP with additional support from trauma-informed, clinically trained Family Advocates who assist families in accessing community resources, and a control group receiving only the SFP curriculum. Both groups participate in the SFP7-17 program, which includes 11 sessions over 10 to 14 weeks. Family Advocates engage weekly with families in the treatment group through 1-hour post-session check-ins, including phone calls and service referrals, running alongside the SFP sessions. Participants include families with one or more adult caregivers and adolescents aged 7 to 17 from designated communities. The study involves baseline assessments, intervention completion evaluations (10 to 14 weeks), and follow-ups at 6 months post-intervention. Researchers measure substance use prevalence, perceptions of harm, referrals to clinical and non-clinical services, ACEs prevalence, social needs, substance use risk, system linkages, and costs. Families must have access to technology for participation, and ongoing monitoring ensures adherence and data collection throughout the study period.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Evaluating an Adverse Childhood Experience-Targeting Advocate Model of a Substance Use Prevention Program
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Residence in or attendance at Strengthening Families Program meetings within one of the 36 designated New Jersey communities affected by ACEs and substance use
- Family includes at least one adult caregiver and one adolescent aged 7 to 17
- Caregiver provides signed and dated informed consent
- Children provide informed assent and parental permission
- Willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the study duration
- Willingness to follow the Strengthening Families Program and Family Advocate intervention schedules
- Access to necessary technology such as a computer, smartphone, and internet
You will not qualify if you...
- Caregiver has previously completed the Strengthening Families Program with children aged 7 to 17
- Intellectual disabilities that prevent completion of the program or study data collection
- Inability to read or understand spoken English for both caregivers and children
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person or remote)
Duration - 10 to 14 weeks
Participants engage in the Strengthening Families Program, attending 11 sessions over 10 to 14 weeks. Families in the experimental group also receive weekly 1-hour check-ins with trauma-informed Family Advocates to assist with community resource access and support.
Weekly 2-hour group sessions and weekly 1-hour Family Advocate check-ins (for experimental group)
Duration - 6 months post-intervention
Participants complete assessments 6 months after intervention completion to monitor outcomes related to substance use, adverse childhood experiences, and social needs.
1 follow-up visit
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
New Jersey Prevention Network
Tinton Falls, New Jersey, United States, 07724
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
A
Andrea L. Zapcic, BA
B
Brittany Simon, MA
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
PREVENTION
Number of Arms
2
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