Dickinson

Researchers are investigating the impact of a COVID-19 adapted disaster-focused prevention program called Journey of Hope-C19 on behavioral health and interpersonal problems among racial and ethnic minority children living in low-resource, high-poverty communities affected by the pandemic and climate-induced disasters such as hurricanes. These children face increased risks of mental and behavioral health challenges due to social and material losses and limited access to health services. The study aims to provide accessible, evidence-based prevention to reduce the onset of mental and behavioral health issues in this vulnerable population. The study compares the Journey of Hope-C19 intervention to a healthy lifestyle attention control program called Switch Off Get Active. The Journey of Hope-C19 involves eight consecutive 1-hour group sessions for children, delivered during the school day and after school, plus a 1.5-hour caregiver workshop for parents. The control program also consists of eight 1-hour group sessions and a caregiver workshop, focusing on different topics. Both programs are delivered in groups of about 8 children or parents. Participants will be assessed at multiple time points: before the intervention (baseline), 2 months after (post intervention), 8 months after (6 months post intervention), and 14 months after (12 months post intervention). Measures include behavioral health questionnaires evaluating emotional distress, prosocial behavior, coping skills, and social support. The study also examines factors like social connectedness, coping, and self-efficacy as potential mediators, and explores implementation success and barriers in school and after-school settings.