Transitioning to an Empty Nest

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. We hope to include some couples who are about to be true empty nesters as well as some couples who are just starting the “launching” process (e.g., their first child will be leaving the home). Thus, in order to participate, either your youngest, only, or 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! 

Thank you to all our couples who have already enrolled in the study! We appreciate your participation. We have 200 amazing couples participating and are looking to recruit 100 more.

We have finished this round of recruitment for parents of seniors in the class of 2026. We’ll be looking for parents of seniors in the class of 2027 starting this summer, so if that describes you contact us at  emptynest@utexas.edu  or 512-475-7527. You may also click on the button below which will take you to a short survey where you can enter your contact information. Our project manager, Kaylie James, will reach out to you.