Preschool Attention Research Study - Parent of a high-energy or easily distracted 3-4-year old
STUDY BASICS
Are you the parent of a child 3-4 years old who is easily distracted or always on-the-go? Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a research study on early childhood brain development to better understand attention and hyperactivity in young children. Compensation is provided.
STUDY PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to learn more about how the brain develops in preschool-age children, some of whom will have elevated inattention or hyperactivity symptoms. This study will provide researchers with important information that may help us provide targeted support for preschool-aged children with inattention or hyperactivity in the future.
COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?
Parent of a child:
- 3-4 Years Old
- Easily distracted, full of energy, or always on-the-go
- Attends preschool or daycare at least 2 days per week
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
If you join the study, your child will take part in fun, engaging activities during two in-person visits over two years. These visits include interactive tasks and assessments while wearing a comfortable head-cap that uses light to measure brain activity—no radiation involved. Parents will also complete online surveys about their child’s behavior.
IRB: STUDY24060118B
- Parent-child neurobehavioral synchrony and early ADHD symptom trajectoriesMEET THE RESEARCHER

Heather Joseph
Heather Joseph, DO, is an Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh where she completed her general psychiatry residency and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship. Her research interest is in the identification of early signals of risk for developing neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Her long-term goal is to aid in the development of early interventions to prevent familial transmission of ADHD.