Faculty member: Christina Kasprzak

Project name: Mom Knows Best

Project goals: The goal of this research is to address significant racial disparities in breastfeeding rates through the development of an evidence-based and community-informed breastfeeding promotion program specifically tailored for non-Hispanic Black women. This research aims to understand the decision-making process, individual level determinants, and environmental barriers to breastfeeding among non-Hispanic Black (NHB) women across different socioeconomic backgrounds. Findings will inform the systematic and community-engaged design of a tailored breastfeeding peer counselor program to improve breastfeeding outcomes (e.g., initiation, duration, intensity, breastfeeding goals) among NHB women. Following program design, the next phase of research (Expected 2026-2029) will involve pilot testing the intervention to assess feasibility and impact on breastfeeding outcomes. Collectively, this research will further our understanding of factors that impact breastfeeding decisions among NHB women and potentially improve breastfeeding outcomes through the design of a breastfeeding PC program tailored specifically for NHB women.

Project tasks: We are looking for students to help with community outreach to help with study recruitment. Students will need a vehicle and driver's license and feel comfortable with visiting community sites throughout Buffalo and engaging with community site staff. Outreach will include posting flyers and tabling at community sites to share information about the study.

Duration of research experience: Spring 2026

Time commitment: 5-6 hours

Will this be in person or remote: In the community