As of March 21, 2025, the Parent Training for Diverse Families (PTDF) project has been terminated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). According to the notice we received:
“This award no longer effectuates agency priorities. Research programs based primarily on artificial and non-scientific categories, including amorphous equity objectives, are antithetical to the scientific inquiry, do nothing to expand our knowledge of living systems, provide low returns on investment, and ultimately do not enhance health, lengthen life, or reduce illness. Worse, so-called diversity, equity, and inclusion (‘DEI’) studies are often used to support unlawful discrimination on the basis of race and other protected characteristics, which harms the health of Americans. Therefore, it is the policy of NIH not to prioritize such research programs.”
We share this update with full transparency and with a continued commitment to the work this project set out to do. Though federal funding has been terminated, we are exploring alternative funding opportunities to continue development.
Parent Training for Diverse Families (PTDF) is a forward-thinking initiative designed to support LGBTQ+ parents by addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by diverse family structures. This evidence-based parenting program fosters resilience, improves family dynamics, and empowers LGBTQ+ parents with the tools and strategies they need to navigate their parenting journey confidently.
Recent research highlights the gaps in parenting resources tailored specifically to the experiences of LGBTQ+ families. These families often encounter unique challenges related to social acceptance, diverse pathways to parenthood, and the intersectionality of their identities. PTDF seeks to bridge this gap by providing an inclusive, culturally responsive program developed with direct input from LGBTQ+ parents.
PTDF is being created for and with LGBTQ+ families. The program’s goals are to:
- Equip parents with practical, evidence-based strategies for positive parenting.
- Enhance family well-being by addressing stressors unique to LGBTQ+ families.
- Build resilience by equipping parents with tools to navigate challenges unique to LGBTQ+ families while fostering confidence and strengthening family bonds.
Through cooperative research, PTDF will ensure that the program reflects the diverse voices and needs of LGBTQ+ families.
*This project was originally supported by Grant #1R44HD106855-01A1 from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Its contents are solely the authors’ responsibility and do not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health