ATVV Intervention for Parent-Child Relationship
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to strengthen the bond between mothers and their newborns using a multisensory technique called ATVV. This technique involves auditory, tactile, visual, and vestibular (balance-related) stimulation in response to the baby's cues. Researchers hope this approach will enhance the function of the oxytocin system, a hormone linked to bonding, particularly for mothers who have faced challenging childhood experiences. Participants are first-time healthy mothers expecting to deliver a single, full-term, healthy baby and who have experienced childhood adversity. In the trial, one group will receive ATVV training, while the other will receive education on safe infant care. The goal is to determine if ATVV leads to better mother-infant interaction and oxytocin responses compared to the education group. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to innovative research that could improve maternal and infant well-being.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are taking anti-depressants during pregnancy, you will not be eligible to participate in this trial. The protocol does not specify other medication restrictions, so it's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.
What prior data suggests that the ATVV intervention is safe for mother-infant interaction?
Research has shown that the ATVV (Auditory, Tactile, Visual, and Vestibular) method is generally safe. Studies have found that this multi-sensory approach can help babies become more alert and may even shorten their hospital stay. Specifically, one study discovered that babies receiving ATVV improved their feeding skills faster and could go home sooner.
Importantly, studies on ATVV have reported no major negative effects. The treatment is considered well-tolerated because it involves natural activities like gentle touch, sounds, and movement. These findings provide confidence that ATVV is a safe option for mothers and their babies participating in this trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
The ATVV intervention is unique because it offers a multi-sensory approach to enhancing the parent-child relationship, which is not typical of standard treatments. Unlike traditional methods that might focus solely on behavioral advice or caregiver education, ATVV incorporates auditory, tactile, visual, and vestibular stimulation in response to infant cues. Researchers are excited about this technique because it could lead to more responsive and engaging interactions between parents and infants, potentially improving developmental outcomes in a way that current standard care options do not prioritize.
What evidence suggests that the ATVV intervention is effective for improving mother-infant interaction?
Research has shown that the ATVV (Auditory, Tactile, Visual, and Vestibular) method, which participants in this trial may receive, can enhance mother-baby interactions. Studies have found that ATVV helps preterm babies become more alert and begin regular feeding sooner, supporting their growth. Specifically, one study discovered that ATVV improved development and interaction, allowing preterm babies to leave the hospital sooner. Another study found that combining ATVV with kangaroo care reduced stress for mothers and improved their interactions with their babies. These findings suggest that ATVV might strengthen the bond between mothers and their babies, particularly for those who have faced challenges in their own childhoods. Meanwhile, the attention control group in this trial will receive education on safe infant care and the same amount of attention as the intervention group.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Aleeca Bell, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Arizona, College of Nursing
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for first-time mothers over 18, expecting a single full-term and healthy baby, who have experienced childhood adversity as indicated by an ACE score of 2 or more. They must speak English or Spanish and not be taking antidepressants or illicit drugs during pregnancy.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline
Baseline data collection in the third trimester, including OXT measures and demographic data
Treatment
Participants are randomized into either the ATVV intervention group or the Attention Control group, with daily activities for 3 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for the effects of the intervention, including a phone call at 6 months postnatal
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Attention control
- ATVV
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Arizona
Lead Sponsor
Children's Wisconsin
Collaborator