University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Logo University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Department of Family and Preventive Medicine: Community Research

Community Research

UAMS’ Department of Family and Preventive Medicine Research and Evaluation Division (DFPM RED) focuses on family and environmental factors linked with poor health, growth, and psychosocial development. We conduct research to test theoretical models, collaborate with community partners to implement and evaluate interventions, train on research-based curriculum, and translate those models into community settings.

Community Collaboration

We partner with communities and community organizations to implement and evaluate programs intended to improve outcomes.

RED projects map July 2019

Click on the image to view larger

 

Annual Summary 2018

Click on the image to view larger

Training and Transitional Research

Many of our projects take research-based knowledge and translate it into practice. Our training programs target professionals in community-based settings such as early care and education, mental health, home visits, shelters, and substance abuse treatment.

See how our programs link to the Teaching Pyramid (PNG file)

Program Evaluation

We collaborate with community agencies to provide process and outcome evaluation of the implementation of interventions.

Research and Development

We develop new tools and interventions, test basic science hypotheses, and explore applied research questions.

We Are Very Active!

COVID-19 Resources

My Teacher Wears a Mask

Our new social story, My Teacher Wears a Mask, was created to help address any potential fear or apprehension experienced by young children due to new guidance related to teachers’ use of protective masks.

Coping with COVID

This is a resource for center administrators using the 10 Components of Trauma-Informed Care to support children during/after COVID crisis.

Coping With COVID (PDF download)

Arkansas Health and Education Hotline

DCCECE staff have been working at the Arkansas Health and Education Hotline to answer incoming calls from Child Care Centers who are experiencing a COVID related issue. The staff at the hotline are able to guide them through the next steps they need to take when they’ve had a positive case or a probable close contact.

If providers need help or have had a positive case, please direct them to the hotline 1-833-504-0155.

RED News

DFPM-RED Researcher Leading $3.1 Million Preschool Intervention to Reduce Obesity and Cancer in Arkansas, Louisiana

Taren Swindle, Ph.D., (left) here visiting a Head Start classroom in 2019, is leading the NCI-funded study that aims to improve diets in early care and education settings. DFPM-RED faculty member Taren Swindle, Ph.D. leads a major new effort to reduce cancer by addressing eating habits in early childcare and education settings. The project, led […]

DFPM-RED Professor discusses kids and COVID with local TV news outlet.

DFPM-RED Assistant Director Nikki Edge, Ph.D., discussed the mental health consequences of COVID among young children with local ABC affiliate KATV-7. “We had no idea we would be, 18 months later, still talking about potential disruptions to school life and to the other kids’ normal everyday life”“If you’re seeing changes in mood and behavior, if […]

Article shines spotlight on DFPM-RED’s Project PLAY

A recent article in The 19th discusses the links between mental health support and the lowering of expulsion rates in schools. The article features the work of DFPM-RED’s Project PLAY and highlights the great work of DFPM-RED team member Elizabeth Waldrum. Read the full article.