Research

In-depth, ongoing, industry-leading research uniquely positions Boys Town to constantly measure our child and family programs to ensure the people we serve actually get better. We take research so seriously that we devote an organization – the Boys Town National Research Institute (NRI) - to ensuring we have data that allows us to continually improve the outcomes for the children and families in our care and that we stay on the cutting edge of research practices.

The NRI conducts applied research focused on understanding the nature of problems children and their families face today and identifying the most effective ways to help them. This extensive research sets Boys Town apart in providing quality care and treatment through its Integrated Continuum of Care. Research includes short-term and long-term follow-up studies of youth and families served by Boys Town, and developing assessments to identify strengths and treatment needs.

Two significant NRI studies indicate that former Boys Town youth use what they learn while in Boys Town’s care to become productive citizens and assets to their communities. The Five-Year Study and Sixteen-Year Study both illustrate that positive changes youth experience in our residential program continue long after they leave Boys Town.

Recent follow-up studies of families in Boys Town’s In-Home Family Services programs also show very positive results. These programs provide intensive treatment for families that are struggling to stay together. Services are delivered to families in their own homes by trained Boys Town Family Consultants.

In support of Boys Town’s strategic plan and ongoing mission of changing the way America cares for children and families, the NRI is focused on six major initiatives:

  1. Maintaining our status as a research-based, cutting-edge child and family service organization;
  2. Expanding outcome data for all services and programs;
  3. Establishing a evidence-based for our In-Home Family Services, Foster Family Services and Common Sense Parenting® programs;
  4. Studying the Continuum’s effectiveness as it spreads across the country;
  5. Identifying factors that enhance implementation of Boys Town’s services;
  6. Researching the intersection of Boys Town’s youth care and health care.