Invitation to Join Study Design for GT-HCRI: A Return to Gentleness Framework
We are seeking partner agencies, universities, and practitioners to collaborate in the study design and evaluation of the Gentle Teaching and Healing-Centered Relational Intervention (GT-HCRI)—a relational and trauma-aware model rooted in A Return to Gentleness.
This initiative aims to meet the rigorous requirements of the Title IV-E Prevention Services Clearinghouse, establishing GT-HCRI as a federally recognized evidence-based program.
Study Design Overview
Goal:
To evaluate the impact of GT-HCRI on children and families at risk of foster care placement, specifically focusing on relational stability, trauma recovery, and caregiver-child attachment quality.
Research Design Components
Design Type:
Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) or Quasi-Experimental Design (QED)
Target Population:
Children ages 5–17 and their caregivers who are:
• At risk of removal from the home
• Receiving child welfare or prevention services
• Diagnosed with developmental, emotional, or behavioral conditions
• Living with caregivers who have trauma or stress histories
Study Groups:
• Intervention Group: Receives GT-HCRI (weekly sessions for 12–20 weeks)
• Control/Comparison Group: Receives standard community-based services
Core Research Questions
- Does participation in GT-HCRI improve placement stability and reduce the likelihood of foster care placement?
- Does GT-HCRI enhance parent-child relational quality, emotional safety, and co-regulation?
- Does the intervention reduce trauma-related behaviors as measured by validated tools?
Outcome Measures
• Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL)
• Quality of Life Value Assessment (child self-report and caregiver version)
• Personal Teaching Planner (caregiver reflection and interaction mapping)
• CTUR Log (observational fidelity and response tracking)
Fidelity & Dosage Monitoring
• Session logs
• Practitioner fidelity checklists
• Mid-point and end-point reflective assessments
Who We’re Looking For
• Research Institutions: To co-design the study, run data analysis, and provide IRB oversight
• Community Agencies: To pilot the model with real families and contribute case data
• Practitioners: To receive training and implement GT-HCRI with fidelity
Timeline (Tentative)
• Summer 2025: Finalize study design and IRB approval
• Fall 2025: Begin implementation and data collection
• 2026–2027: Ongoing evaluation and submission for Clearinghouse review
Join the Movement
If you or your organization is interested in being part of this study, please contact:
Dr. Anthony M. McCrovitz
anthonymccrovitz@gmail.com
i-gentleteaching.org
Together, we can elevate relational healing, restore safety, and affirm dignity through a framework grounded in Gentle Teaching.