Kate Guastaferro
Kate Guastaferro
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Assistant Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Co-Director of the Center for the Advancement and Dissemination of Intervention Optimization
Director of the Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) Program
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Professional overview
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Kate Guastaferro, PhD is an intervention scientist by training, her work is devoted to the development, optimization, implementation and evaluation of effective, efficient, affordable and scalable interventions with high public health impact. She is an expert in the multiphase optimization (MOST) strategy and her expertise is in parent-focused, multicomponent behavioral interventions to prevent child maltreatment. Dr. Guastaferro co-led a statewide trial focused on the coordinated implementation of three evidence-base child sexual abuse prevention programs; included in this trial was the parent-focused child sexual abuse program that she developed, piloted and evaluated. Her current work is focused on the integration of intervention optimization into the prevention of child maltreatment.
Prior to joining NYU, Dr. Guastaferro was an assistant research professor in human development and family studies at the Pennsylvania State University, and an affiliate of its Prevention Research Center and Child Maltreatment Solutions Network. In 2020, she was awarded the Victoria S. Levin Award for Early Career Success in Young Children’s Mental Health Research from the Society for Research in Child Development. She has been published in Child Maltreatment, Translational Behavioral Medicine, and the American Journal of Public Health.
Dr. Guastaferro received her PhD and MPH from Georgia State University’s School of Public Health, and her BA in anthropology from Boston University. She also completed a year of postdoctoral training at the Pennsylvania State University.
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Education
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Postdoctoral Fellow, Prevention and Methodology Training Program (T32 DA017629), The Pennsylvania State UniversityPhD Public Health, Georgia State UniversityMPH Health Promotion, Georgia State UniversityBA Anthropology, Boston University
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Honors and awards
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Victoria S. Levin Award, Society for Research on Child Development (2020)NIH Loan Repayment Program Award: Toward the Optimization of Behavioral Interventions to Prevent Child Maltreatment (201820192020)Public Health Achievement Award, Georgia State University (2016)Scarlet Key Honor Society, Boston University (2008)
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Publications
Publications
A community-based sexual abuse prevention trial.
AbstractGuastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2019Abstract~A comprehensive approach to child sexual abuse prevention: The Safe and Healthy Communities Initiative.
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Zadzora, K. M., & Noll, J. G. (n.d.).Publication year
2019Abstract~A coordinated, comprehensive approach to child sexual abuse prevention.
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Zadzora, K. M., & Noll, J. G. (n.d.).Publication year
2019Abstract~A guide to programs for parenting children with autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities, or developmental disabilities: Evidence-based guidance for professionals
AbstractGuastaferro, K., & Lutzker, J. R. (n.d.).Publication year
2018AbstractThis book provides a comprehensive outline of the major parent training programs for parents of children with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), including Autism Spectrum Disorder.Parents or primary caregivers spend the most time with a child, and training them in behaviour management and intervention strategies is critical to improving a child's behaviour, to helping them to learn new skills, and to reduce parental stress. Authored by eminent specialists in the field and written for researchers and clinicians supporting or treating families, each chapter focuses on one of the key evidence-based parent training programs - from Incredible Years® and Positive Family Intervention through to Pivotal Response Treatment and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Each chapter provides a breakdown that features an introduction to the model, evidence for the model, a full description of the model, a discussion of implementation and dissemination efforts, and concluding comments.Grounded in research, this definitive overview provides the evidence and guidance required for anyone considering investing in or running a parenting program.A hybrid evaluation-optimization trial of the itMatters intervention and a sexual violence component among college students.
AbstractTanner, A. E., Guastaferro, K., Wyrick, D. L., Milroy, J., Rulison, K. L., Bhandari, S., Thorpe, S., Ware, S., Miller, A. M., & Collins, L. (n.d.).Publication year
2021Abstract~A hybrid evaluation-optimization trial to evaluate an intervention targeting the intersection of alcohol and sex in college students and simultaneously test an additional component aimed at preventing sexual violence
AbstractTanner, A. E., Guastaferro, K., Rulison, K. L., Wyrick, D. L., Milroy, J. J., Bhandari, S., Thorpe, S., Ware, S., Miller, A. M., & Collins, L. M. (n.d.).Publication year
2021Journal title
Annals of Behavioral MedicineVolume
55Issue
12Page(s)
1184-1187AbstractBackground: Using the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST), we previously developed and optimized an online behavioral intervention, itMatters, aimed at reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STI) among first-year college students by targeting the intersection of alcohol use and sexual behaviors. Purpose: We had two goals: (a) to evaluate the optimized itMatters intervention and (b) to determine whether the candidate sexual violence prevention (SVP) component (included at the request of participating universities) had a detectable effect and therefore should be added to create a new version of itMatters. We also describe the hybrid evaluation-optimization trial we conducted to accomplish these two goals in a single experiment. Methods: First year college students (N = 3,098) at four universities in the USA were individually randomized in a hybrid evaluation-optimization 2 × 2 factorial trial. Data were analyzed using regression models, with pre-test outcome variables included as covariates in the models. Analyses were conducted separately with (a) immediate post-test scores and (b) 60-day follow-up scores as outcome variables. Results: Experimental results indicated a significant effect of itMatters on targeted proximal outcomes (norms) and on one distal behavioral outcome (binge drinking). There were no significant effects on other behavioral outcomes, including the intersection of alcohol and sexual behaviors. In addition, there were mixed results (positive short-term effect; no effect at 60-day follow-up) of the SVP component on targeted proximal outcomes (students' self-efficacy to reduce/prevent sexual violence and perceived effectiveness of protective behavioral strategies). Conclusions: The hybrid evaluation-optimization trial enabled us to evaluate the individual and combined effectiveness of the optimized itMatters intervention and the SVP component in a single experiment, conserving resources and providing greatly improved efficiency. Trial Registration: NCT04095065.A methodological review of SafeCare®
AbstractGuastaferro, K., & Lutzker, J. R. (n.d.).Publication year
2019Journal title
Journal of Child and Family StudiesVolume
28Issue
12Page(s)
3268-3285AbstractObjectives: More than 500,000 children experience neglect each year in the United States, yet few evidence-based parent-training programs focus primarily on preventing and mitigating the risk factors for neglect. A notable exception is SafeCare®. This review focuses on the research designs used at three phases of the SafeCare model: development, evaluation, and dissemination. Methods: Presented in chronological order, the purpose is to highlight the 40-year evidence-base of the SafeCare model and to demonstrate that certain research designs are specific to phases of intervention development. Results: The cumulative evidence from those 40 years for the SafeCare model and its predecessor is powerful. Conclusions: Future research with a variety of experimental designs related to dissemination and implementation research are discussed.A parent education program designed to enhance the developmental growth of infants at-risk for autism
AbstractMolko-Harpaz, R., & Guastaferro, K. (n.d.). (K. G. & & J. R. Lutzker, Eds.).Publication year
2018Page(s)
211-234Abstract~A parent-focused child sexual abuse prevention module added to PAT: Results of a cluster randomized trial.
AbstractGuastaferro, K., & Crane, J. (n.d.).Publication year
2020Abstract~A parent-focused child sexual abuse prevention program: Development, acceptability, and feasibility
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Zadzora, K. M., Reader, J. M., Shanley, J., & Noll, J. G. (n.d.).Publication year
2019Journal title
Journal of Child and Family StudiesVolume
28Issue
7Page(s)
1862-1877AbstractObjectives: Child sexual abuse (CSA) affects nearly 60,000 children in the U.S. annually. Although prevention efforts targeting adults in the community and school-aged children have been somewhat successful, there is a clear gap in the current prevention efforts: parents. Generalized parent-education (PE) programs have effectively reduced the rates of physical abuse and neglect; however, currently no PE program targets risk factors for CSA specifically. We sought to develop a brief parent-focused CSA prevention module to be added onto existing PE programs thereby leveraging the skills and implementation infrastructure to ensure sustainability. Methods: In three phases, we developed the curriculum, refined content and presentation while simultaneously developing and psychometrically evaluating a measurement tool, and conducted an acceptability and feasibility pilot. These phases are described in detail such that intervention scientists wishing to develop a module to be added onto existing programs can follow our procedures. Results: The results of each phase are described so that the reader can see how information gleaned in one part of a phase informed subsequent phases of research. This was an iterative process of development, refinement, and piloting. Conclusions: The resultant parent-focused CSA prevention module is designed to be added onto extant evidence-based PE programs. The module, and the additive approach of the intervention, will be evaluated in a future randomized controlled trial.A preliminary analysis of the relationship between hazards in the home and the potential for abuse with families at-risk
AbstractWalsh, J. H., Lutzker, J. R., Guastaferro, K., & Whitaker, D. J. (n.d.).Publication year
2016Journal title
International Journal on Child Health and Human DevelopmentVolume
9Issue
3Page(s)
355-365Abstract~A qualitative discussion of technology enhanced service delivery: Parent and provider considerations.
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Graham, M. L., & Lutzker, J. R. (n.d.).Publication year
2014Abstract~A Quasi-Experimental Trial of Universal Parent-Focused Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Program: Recruitment Practicalities and Pitfalls
AbstractTorney, I., Abourjaily, E., & Guastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2025Abstract~A Scoping Review: Are U.S. Teachers Equipped to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse?
AbstractMartin, C., Melchior, M. S., Chasen, E., & Guastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2025Abstract~A Site-Specific and Temporal Analysis of a School-Based Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Program
AbstractModi, P., Abourjaily, E., Torney, I., & Guastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2025Abstract~A story of mothers with intellectual and developmental disabilities: Relationships and social networks
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Benka-Coker, M. L., & Lutzker, J. R. (n.d.). (J. L. K. G. & & M. L. Benka-Coker, Eds.).Publication year
2016Abstract~A to Z and not just “K:” Considerations for Applying the Multiphase Optimization Strategy in Your Career Development Award.
AbstractWells, R. D., Gazaway, S., Merrill, K. G., & Guastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2024Abstract~A vision for the prevention of child maltreatment: Optimization of multicomponent behavioral interventions
AbstractGuastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2021Abstract~A vision for the prevention of child maltreatment: Optimization of multicomponent interventions
AbstractGuastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2023Page(s)
107-133Abstract~Achieving the goals of translational science in public health intervention research: The multiphase optimization strategy (MOST)
AbstractGuastaferro, K., & Collins, L. M. (n.d.).Publication year
2019Journal title
American Journal of Public HealthVolume
109Issue
S2Page(s)
S128-S129Abstract~Adapting a selective parent-focused child sexual abuse prevention curriculum for a universal audience : A pilot study
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Abuchaibe, V., McCormick, K. V., Bhoja, A., Abourjaily, E. L., Melchior, M. S., Grayson, C., Welikson, P., Dan, C., & Zeleke, M. B. (n.d.).Publication year
2024Journal title
PloS oneVolume
19Issue
5 MayAbstractParents are an obvious, but underutilized player in the prevention of child sexual abuse (CSA). A handful of universal parent-focused prevention programs have emerged, however, the evidence for these programs is mixed and the programs suffer ubiquitously from barriers to implementation (e.g., poor engagement, low participation) thereby limiting public health impact. To combat these barriers and improve evidence, researchers previously developed and tested a selective parent-focused CSA prevention program. While promising, the selective approach still leaves a gap in the prevention landscape-parents from the universal audience. However, there appear to be no standardized methods to inform this type of adaptation-interventions designed as universal or selective have primarily been delivered as such. This study sought to adapt the selective curriculum for a universal audience and examined the acceptability and feasibility of the program for evaluation in a future trial. Using mixed methods, N = 31 parents (i.e., primary caregiver for a child under 13) completed pre- and post-workshop surveys followed by a brief individual interview conducted via Zoom. Interviews, coded using content analysis methods, focused on three themes: parents as agents of prevention (e.g., prior action, confidence), curriculum (e.g., content, design), and engagement (e.g., future marketing and promotion). Overall participants' mean score on CSA-related awareness and intention to use protective behavioral strategies increased. The participants found the curriculum highly acceptable noting strengths in the content and design. All told, the results of this pilot study suggest the acceptability and feasibility of examining the efficacy of the universal parent-focused curriculum in a larger trial. Procedural challenges, such as bots in recruitment, identify areas of caution in design of the larger trial and a roadmap for others seeking to adapt selective programs for universal audiences.Adapting a selective parent-focused child sexual abuse prevention curriculum for a universal audience: A pilot study
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Abuchaibe, V., McCormick, K., Bhoja, A., Abourjaily, E., Melchior, M., Grayson, C., Welikson, P., Dan, C., & Zeleke, M. B. (n.d.).Publication year
2024Journal title
PLOS ONEPage(s)
1-16AbstractParents are an obvious, but underutilized player in the prevention of child sexual abuse (CSA). A handful of universal parent-focused prevention programs have emerged, however, the evidence for these programs is mixed and the programs suffer ubiquitously from barriers to implementation (e.g., poor engagement, low participation) thereby limiting public health impact. To combat these barriers and improve evidence, researchers previously developed and tested a selective parent-focused CSA prevention program. While promising, the selective approach still leaves a gap in the prevention landscape – parents from the universal audience. However, there appear to be no standardized methods to inform this type of adaptation— interventions designed as universal or selective have primarily been delivered as such. This study sought to adapt the selective curriculum for a universal audience and examined the acceptability and feasibility of the program for evaluation in a future trial. Using mixed methods, N=31 parents (i.e., primary caregiver for a child under 13) completed pre- and post-workshop surveys followed by a brief individual interview conducted via Zoom. Interviews, coded using content analysis methods, focused on three themes: parents as agents of prevention (e.g., prior action, confidence), curriculum (e.g., content, design), and engagement (e.g., future marketing and promotion). Overall participants’ mean score on CSA-related awareness and intention to use protective behavioral strategies increased. The participants found the curriculum highly acceptable noting strengths in the content and design. All told, the results of this pilot study suggest the acceptability and feasibility of examining the efficacy of the universal parent-focused curriculum in a larger trial. Procedural challenges, such as bots in recruitment, identify areas of caution in design of the larger trial and a roadmap for others seeking to adapt selective programs for universal audiences.Adapting a sexual and reproductive health program for Latina teens and their female caregivers: A qualitative study
AbstractMerrill, K. G., Fuentes, J., Merrill, J., DeCelles, J., Silva, J., Sedeño, A., Salgado, S., Vargas, S., Cano, J. K., Nabor, V., Rodriguez, L., Melgoza, V., Mora, C., Baumann, A. A., Guastaferro, K., & Donenberg, G. R. (n.d.).Publication year
2025Journal title
Frontiers in Public HealthVolume
13AbstractBackground: Adaptation is widely recognized as important when interventions are to be delivered in new settings or with new populations. However, there are gaps in the literature on how adaptations are carried out and documented. IMARA is a 12-h evidence-based sexual health intervention for Black teens and their mothers, designed for delivery over two days. We present our systematic process of adapting IMARA for Latinas to produce the Floreciendo (“Blooming”) program for Latina teens (14–18 years old) and their female caregivers (e.g., mothers, sisters). Methods: Using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach, we carried out a qualitative study that included 7 focus groups: 4 with staff from community partner organizations (n = 29), 2 with Latina teens (14–18 years) (n = 11), and 1 with female caregivers (n = 5). We also conducted seven key informant interviews with experts in sexual health and Latina health. We used Escoffery’s recommended steps to guide our adaptation process. Data were thematically coded and adaptations documented using the FRAME for reporting modifications to evidence-based interventions. Results: Informed by the data, we grouped IMARA content into four sessions for Floreciendo, each with unique curricular content and designed to be delivered in two hours (eight hours total): (1) Foundations in Sexual Risk Prevention; (2) Condoms and Contraception; (3) Family Strengthening; and (4) Gender and Relationships. We documented adaptations made for each session. For example, participants emphasized unplanned pregnancy as an important issue facing Latina teens. In response, we added an activity providing hands-on experience with contraceptive methods. Participants also highlighted how gender norms and family expectations in Latine culture shape Latina teens’ sexual and reproductive health practices. We therefore developed activities and opportunities for discussion addressing these cultural influences. We removed IMARA activities considered of lower priority (e.g., portrayal of women in the media). Conclusion: This study addresses gaps in the literature by reporting in detail the adaptations we made to an evidence-based intervention using qualitative methods. The four curriculum sessions we generated through our adaptation process will form the basis of the intervention components we will test in future work using the multiphase optimization strategy (MOST) framework.Adapting prevention programs for virtual delivery: A case study in adapting a parent-focused child sexual abuse prevention module
AbstractGuastaferro, K., Melchior, M. S., Murphy-Costanzo, A., Sunshine, S., Neimeyer, A., Stewart, S., & Noll, J. (n.d.).Publication year
2023Journal title
Journal of Public Health ResearchVolume
12Issue
4AbstractBackground: Evolving and emerging contexts require interventions to respond and adapt. The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a quick adaptation from in-person to virtual delivery. Not only were there few programs able to transition to virtual delivery, there was a lack of parent-focused CSA-prevention programs. The current study describes the responsive adaptation of a parent-focused child sexual abuse (CSA) prevention module (Smart Parents—Safe and Healthy Kids; SPSHK) for virtual delivery. Design and methods: This two-phase study used mixed-methods to inform and pilot test adaptations to the virtual module. In Phase 1, parenting providers with and without experience delivering SPSHK (N = 110) completed anonymous surveys and a subsample (n = 27) subsequently participated in brief interviews elaborate on challenges and needed adaptations for virtual platforms. Results: Providers indicated the greatest technological difficulties with parents’ access to technology noting the inability to use a screensharing function. Thus, providers recommended no adaptations for the virtual delivery of SPSHK. In Phase 2, the virtual SPSHK module was piloted with nine parents. Results demonstrated virtual SPSHK was acceptable and feasibly implemented. Pre-posttest assessments indicated increases in parents’ CSA-related awareness and use of protective behaviors. Conclusion: The current study suggests the promise of virtual SPSHK implementation and may act as a blueprint for other parent-focused CSA-prevention programs, but also more general parenting programs, considering virtual delivery.Adaptive Interventions: Innovations in Intervention and Experimental Design.
AbstractNahum-Shani, I., Almirall, D., & Guastaferro, K. (n.d.).Publication year
2024Abstract~