Developing Resilience and Anxiety Management Through the Arts (DRAMA) 2 Study Comparing Improvisation and Wellness Techniques in Youth with Anxiety and Depression

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how theatrical improvisation exercises combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, improvisation exercises alone, and social craft activities can help reduce stress, anxiety, and sad mood in children and adolescents aged 8 to 17 years. The study explores whether adding CBT techniques to improvisation offers greater relief from anxiety and depression compared to improvisation alone or craft projects. This research aims to support youth in managing anxiety and depression symptoms as a supplementary approach rather than a replacement for intensive treatment. The study includes three groups: one practicing improvisation plus wellness techniques based on CBT, such as mindfulness and cognitive restructuring; another doing improvisation exercises without wellness techniques; and a third group participating in social craft projects. These activities are led by trained undergraduates, schoolteachers, or graduate students without formal therapy backgrounds. The groups meet for nine weeks, focusing on building social, coping, and creative skills through these arts-based sessions. Participants will be assessed at the start, immediately after the nine-week program, and three months later. Measurements include anxiety and depression levels reported by parents and youth, knowledge and use of CBT skills, mindfulness, connectedness, emotion regulation, and self-esteem. The study monitors changes over time to understand how these activities may support emotional well-being in youth, with overall participation lasting several months including follow-up assessments.

Developing Resilience and Anxiety Management Through the Arts