Rigorously Evaluating Programs and Policies to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse and Problematic Sexual Behavior among Youth

The CDC’s "Rigorously Evaluating Programs and Policies to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse and Problematic Sexual Behavior among Youth" (NOFO RFA-CE-25-026) aims to expand the evidence base for primary prevention strategies targeting child sexual abuse (CSA) and problematic sexual behavior (PSB) among youth. This funding opportunity is intended to support investigator-initiated projects that rigorously evaluate programs or policies for their impact on preventing the perpetration of CSA or youth engagement in PSB. This NOFO focuses on three primary areas of research: addressing community, societal, or structural conditions; preventing CSA or PSB in digital spaces; and implementing organizational policy in youth-serving organizations (YSOs)【79†source】. Key definitions include CSA, defined as involvement of youth under 18 in sexual activities they do not fully comprehend, do not consent to, or are not developmentally prepared for, perpetrated by adults. PSB refers to sexual behaviors by youth under 18 that are inappropriate for their developmental stage and have potential for harm. Applicants must demonstrate a clear link between the chosen prevention approach and outcomes related to preventing CSA or PSB perpetration, including reduction in risk factors or increase in protective factors【79†source】. Funding is available through a U01 cooperative agreement mechanism, with CDC/NCIPC committing up to $1.2 million in FY 2025 for up to three awards. The budget allows $400,000 per year, with an anticipated total of $1.6 million across the four-year funding period. Projects should implement experimental or quasi-experimental designs, potentially incorporating qualitative methods, and should be designed to track both primary prevention outcomes (CSA and PSB) and proximal outcomes like changes in social norms or attitudes【79†source】. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profits, local governments, Native American tribal organizations, and other entities. A key requirement is the demonstration of partnerships with relevant community organizations and stakeholders, especially those serving populations disproportionately impacted by CSA and PSB. Proposals are encouraged to address health equity, ensuring the accessibility and applicability of the prevention programs across diverse demographic groups, and to consider unintended consequences【79†source】. Applications are due by December 2, 2024, with a Letter of Intent suggested by November 1, 2024. The scientific merit review is tentatively scheduled for April 29, 2025, with awards expected by September 30, 2025.