Study of Theatrical Improvisation and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to Reduce Anxiety and Depression in Children and Teens Aged 8 to 17

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore how theatrical improvisation exercises, combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy CBT techniques, compare to improvisation exercises alone and a social craft group in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms in children and adolescents aged 8 to 17. The study focuses on addressing stress, anxiety, and sad mood by evaluating these approaches as supplementary or preventative methods rather than formal therapy. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups the Improvisation Wellness group, which combines improvisation with CBT-based techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation the Improvisation only group, which practices improvisation exercises without CBT techniques and the Social Craft group, where youth engage in arts and crafts projects while connecting socially. Group leaders are non-therapists such as students and teachers, and the study aims to last 9 weeks of group curriculum. During the study, participants will be assessed at baseline, after completing the 9-week program, and again 3 months later. Evaluations include parent and youth reports of anxiety and depression, knowledge and use of CBT skills, mindfulness, connectedness, emotion regulation, and self-esteem. The study is designed to observe changes over time and the potential benefits of these creative group activities in managing anxiety and depression symptoms.

Developing Resilience and Anxiety Management Through the Arts