ABC Study

Being a mother can be joyful, but it can also be challenging. Things might feel particularly hard right now given the stress of COVID-19. Parenting might feel like you’re on a roller coaster with lots of highs and lows. Mothers might feel sad, stressed, or overwhelmed. Some toddlers may also be having a hard time managing their emotions, and may feel sad or anxious.

We are conducting a study of the ABC Program, which is a free family intervention to support mothers and their children (between the ages of 2 and 4 years old). This program may help both you and your child feel better. We welcome families from San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and surrounding areas. All ABC sessions are conducted by video and there are only two short (less than 10 minutes) in-person home visits (one before you start the program and one after). We conduct the in-person visits safely, with approval from the UCSF Office of Research and using strict social distancing practices. We can even do them outside (on your porch or in your backyard), if you'd like. 

The program includes:

  • 10 weekly, one-hour sessions for you and your child with a parent coach. These sessions are typically provided in your home, but due to COVID-19, we are now providing these sessions by telehealth using secure, HIPPA-compliant videoconferencing software (Zoom).
  • Discussions about parenting and playtime to support a positive relationship with your child
  • Positive feedback so you can continue what’s working well between sessions
  • A set of new toys for you and your child to play with during the sessions
  • A special video gift of you and your child to celebrate the completion of the program
  • The opportunity to earn up to $200 in gift cards for participating in the study

We are now recruiting! If you are interested in participating, please click this secure link to complete a screening form. We will reach out to you within 48 hours to let you know if you are eligible or not. Your information will be kept confidential and not shared with anyone. 

Any questions? Please email us at [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you!