What strong, mixed, and limited evidence mean
These labels help families see how much confidence to place in a finding and where questions remain.
Some family questions have been studied many times with similar results. Other studies disagree. Some questions are only beginning to be studied. Resilient Kids uses four labels to show the difference: strong, mixed, limited, and still evolving.[3]
An evidence label tells families how much confidence to place in the research behind the guidance.[1]
Strong evidence
We use strong when well-conducted research points in the same direction and closely matches the children, setting, and question being discussed. Families can place more confidence in the overall finding.[1]
A strong label describes confidence in the finding. The size of the benefit, the effort involved, and a child’s individual needs still shape the family’s decision.[2]
Mixed evidence
We use mixed when credible studies reach different answers or when results change across ages, settings, or the way researchers measure an outcome. We explain where the findings agree and where they differ.[1]
Mixed evidence often leaves more than one reasonable choice. Families can consider the research alongside their child’s needs and the practical tradeoffs of each option.[2]
Limited evidence
We use limited when only a small amount of relevant research is available, studies are small, or the research does not closely match the family question. We share what researchers have found and make the lower confidence clear.[1]
Still evolving
We use still evolving when new research or updated professional guidance could materially change the current answer. We explain what is known now and revisit the guidance when the evidence changes.[3]
How to use the label
Start with the label, then read the sentence it describes. Strong evidence can support a clear starting point. Mixed evidence calls for more attention to the child and the tradeoffs. Limited or evolving evidence calls for a cautious next step and a clear explanation of what researchers are still learning.[2]
When a decision involves a child’s health, safety, development, or treatment, use the evidence label and linked sources alongside advice from a licensed clinician.