Targeting Negative Affect Through Mindfulness Training in Youth at Risk for Internalizing Problems R33

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether an online mindfulness program can reduce and prevent mood and anxiety symptoms in adolescents who are at risk due to high levels of trait negative affect, a tendency to experience frequent and intense negative emotions. This randomized clinical trial compares the mindfulness program to a supportive comparison group and a no-intervention control group. The study focuses on reducing momentary negative emotions and internalizing problems in youth aged 12 to 17 years old. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups the Mindfulness Program, the Supportive Active Comparison, or a Control group. The Mindfulness Program involves nine weekly 30-minute online sessions with a coach teaching mindfulness skills like calm breathing and gratitude. The Supportive Active group also meets weekly online with a coach to discuss personal thoughts and feelings, using active listening and expressive writing. The Control group completes assessments only at the same time points as the other groups. Participants will be assessed before the intervention, after the 9-week program, and again at a six-month follow-up. Assessments include measures of momentary negative affect and internalizing symptoms using ecological momentary assessment and diagnostic evaluations. The study aims to understand how mindfulness training affects emotional regulation and the development of anxiety and depression symptoms in vulnerable youth over time.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Testing the Effect of the Youth Mindful Awareness Program on Negative Affect (YMAP2).