Nurse-Family Partnership — Elmira Trial

Summary

David Olds designed one of the most replicated social intervention experiments in history. Nurses visiting low-income first-time mothers during and after pregnancy produced dramatic reductions in child abuse, neglect, emergency visits, and later criminal behavior—for both the children and the mothers. The 15-year follow-up showing reduced arrests was particularly striking. The program has now been replicated in three US cities and multiple countries with consistent effects, making it one of the strongest evidence bases in social policy.

Research question

"Do regular nurse home visits during pregnancy and early childhood improve maternal and child outcomes?"

Methodology

Result

Positive

−80% verified child abuse and neglect at age 2; −56% emergency room visits; at 15-year follow-up: −48% child arrests, −59% maternal arrests, −83% convictions for low-income unmarried mothers

Evidence strength

Strong

Randomized trial, replicated across multiple sites or studies.

Replication status

Replicated