Using the HOPE framework to strengthen positive childhood experiences and prevent youth substance use in Massachusetts
Children in military families face unique challenges, including frequent relocations, parental deployments, and family separations, which can affect their mental health and well-being. The STEPS project, led by researchers at the Uniformed Services University in collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics and the HOPE National Resource Center at Tufts Medical Center, aims to strengthen pediatric healthcare providers’ ability to recognize and respond to these challenges while promoting Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) that support healthy development and resilience.
The project will develop, implement, and evaluate a training curriculum and clinical decision-support tools to help pediatric healthcare providers identify military-related stressors, support families during transitions, and connect them with appropriate resources.
The HOPE National Resource Center will play a key role in integrating the HOPE framework into the project, emphasizing the importance of supportive relationships, safe and nurturing environments, meaningful engagement, and opportunities for emotional growth. The HOPE team will develop training modules and practical resources for healthcare providers, informed by input from military families and clinicians. HOPE will also contribute to implementing and evaluating the training, helping ensure that pediatric care not only addresses adversity but actively promotes the positive experiences that children need to thrive.
Research Project Information
Project Name
STEPS: Supporting Transitions and Enhancing Psychological Health in Military Children Through Pediatric Healthcare Solutions
HOPE Contributors
Amanda Winn, MSW
Dina Burstein, MD, MPH
Collaborators
Uniformed Services University
Binny Chokshi, MD, MEd
Dakota Davis
Funders
U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Project Dates
October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2031
Keywords
positive childhood experiences (PCEs), HOPE framework, Four Building Blocks of HOPE, military children, pediatric care, mental health
