A program to help young people use technology in a healthier way
Official title: Project 2: A brief motivational interviewing intervention to promote healthy technology use and prevent mental health and behavior problems
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-11091022 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to help teens aged 12 to 20 who are struggling with their mental health because of too much technology use by offering friendly conversations and online tools to encourage healthier habits.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | May 7, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $8,011 |
| NIH project number | 1P50MH139449-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091022 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who may be experiencing mental health issues related to technology use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not adolescents or who do not engage in problematic technology use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to address the mental health challenges faced by adolescents due to excessive and problematic technology use. It involves a brief motivational interviewing intervention designed to promote healthier technology habits among youth aged 12 to 20. The intervention includes interviews and self-assessments for both adolescents and their caregivers, followed by online modules that enhance self-efficacy and self-regulation regarding technology use. By focusing on these areas, the project seeks to mitigate risks associated with online behaviors and improve overall mental health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and reduced behavioral problems in adolescents by promoting healthier technology use.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that motivational interviewing can be effective in improving mental health outcomes among adolescents, suggesting a promising approach for this intervention.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Doty, Jennifer L — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Doty, Jennifer L
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.