Work

Caregiver perspectives on participation in pediatric neuroimaging research: insights from qualitative focus groups

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Infant functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is increasingly used in research to identify early emerging biomarkers of neurodevelopmental conditions. Although these methods hold promise for advancing discovery, pediatric MRI research protocols, which often require infants to be scanned during natural sleep, can present a range of challenges for infants and their caregivers. Yet little is known about caregivers' experiences participating in non-clinically indicated MRI studies with their infants. This study explored caregivers' motivations for participating in infant MRI research, their experiences during participation, and their suggestions for improving infant MRI protocols. Three semi-structured focus groups were conducted with caregivers of 0-6-month-old infants who participated in a longitudinal MRI study. Thematic analysis revealed that caregivers were primarily motivated by contributing to science and helping other families. Many experienced performance anxieties while attempting to help their infants fall asleep for a scan, but supportive communication from research staff helped reduce these concerns. Caregivers recommended flexible scheduling, clearer procedural expectations, and pre-visit materials to improve preparedness. These findings underscore the importance of family-centered communication in infant neuroimaging protocols.

Source: Frontiers in Neuroscience

DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2026.1963995

Authors: Sydney Olson, Carly Reineri Thellman, Brooke Demetri, Brittney Sholar, Sarah Shultz

Institutions: Emory University, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Language: English

Topic: Ethics in Clinical Research

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801