Exploring how social participation and psychological flexibility affect chronic stroke survivors

Social Participation & psychological flexibility in chronic stroke survivors

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11054926

This study is looking at how getting involved in social activities can help stroke survivors feel better and connect with others, and it’s testing a friendly approach that combines practice with support to help them overcome any fears that might hold them back.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11054926 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the importance of social participation for stroke survivors and how psychological flexibility can enhance their ability to engage in meaningful social activities. It combines strategy training, which involves practicing social activities with guidance, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which helps individuals manage psychological barriers like fear of embarrassment. The goal is to determine if this combined approach can improve social participation outcomes for stroke survivors, ultimately aiming to reduce feelings of isolation and improve overall well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a stroke and are seeking to improve their social engagement and psychological well-being.

Not a fit: Patients who are not stroke survivors or those who do not wish to participate in social activities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help stroke survivors regain their social connections and improve their mental health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using psychological interventions like ACT to improve outcomes for individuals with chronic conditions, suggesting potential success for this combined approach.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acquired brain injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.