Are your children growing up and moving out of the family home soon? 

Please consider participating in a study funded by the National Science Foundation on couples' experiences as they start the transition into an "empty nest". By gathering information from couples both before and after their children leave the home, we hope to gain a richer understanding of the unique benefits and challenges associated with this time. 

For this study, we intend to recruit 300 married or cohabiting couples. In order to participate, either (1) your youngest/only child should currently be in their senior year of high school or (2) your oldest child should currently be in their senior year of high school. Your child should be expected to move out of the family home - either to attend university or to start a new job/volunteer opportunity - within four months of their high school graduation. Both you and your partner will be asked to participate in the study. Blended families are welcome!

If you think you might be eligibile to participate, please contact us at emptynest@utexas.edu or 512-475-7527. Let us know a good time to contact you, and our project manager, Kaylie James, will reach out to tell you more about the study! Our first wave of recruitment will be ongoing from August 2024 thru end of January 2025!