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The Pregnant Moms' Empowerment Program

Intimate partner violence (IPV), including threats or acts of physical, sexual, or psychological violence against a partner, occurs at shockingly high rates. The lifetime prevalence of IPV victimization for women in the US is 35%, with the highest risk during pregnancy. IPV during pregnancy is not only associated with decrements in maternal functioning, but children born to IPV-exposed women are more likely to have poor birth outcomes and problems in early attachment and adjustment. Despite the serious threats IPV poses to both mother and infant, few effective interventions for this population exist. The dearth of programs for pregnant women has resulted in high risk at the earliest stages of infant development – a risk that is imminently preventable. This study examines the effectiveness of a group therapy program for pregnant women. The program has demonstrated promising effects in a pilot study with 136 women in South Bend, IN and Memphis, TN. This project continues to be a part of a multi-site collaboration with the University of Memphis. Across sites, the current study will include 230 pregnant women (16 years +) who have been exposed to intimate partner violence in the past year. Women participating in the study are assigned to either an intervention or social support groups and participate in interviews at baseline, post-intervention, and at 3-months and 1-year postpartum.

Research Focus

  • Maternal/Child and Community Health

    At the EIGH, our researchers explore multifaceted health issues pertaining to women, pregnancy, breastfeeding, reproduction, and infant and child well-being. Our focus to decrease maternal and infant mortality rates supports a global priority among health practitioners and researchers. Additionally, community-based research on the local and global levels promotes a team effort to protect and improve the health of population groups worldwide. 

  • Mental Health

    At the EIGH, our researchers explore the multifactorial conditions which can introduce mental health issues into local and global communities. Focus areas include underserved and resource poor-communities, regions with socio-economic, infrastructure, or political instability, paternal and maternal mental health, and child mental wellness. Additionally, community-based research on the local and global levels promotes a team effort to protect and improve the health of population groups worldwide. 

Who’s Involved

EIGH Faculty

Kathryn Howell, PhD, Virginia Commonwealth University
Help for Children
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Additional Information

The Pregnant Moms' Empowerment website

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