Implementation of a new approach to moral injury in kids: helping MIS symptoms with a group program
Official title: Implementation of Innovative Treatment for Moral Injury Syndrome: A Hybrid Type 2 Study
Funded at Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys · NIH-11445640 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A clinician-led group program called Building Spiritual Strength is being tested to help children and youth affected by moral injury symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (North Little Rock, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| NIH project number | 5I01HX003722-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11445640 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal participants are children and adolescents experiencing moral injury symptoms who can participate in group sessions.
✕Less likely to help
Some youths may not respond to this particular group approach or may have conditions needing different care.
What this research studies
This project adapts and tests a group-based intervention for MIS in young people, comparing Building Spiritual Strength to standard care. It plans to measure MIS symptoms as a primary outcome, along with depression, suicidal thoughts, and daily functioning. The study aims to create an implementation toolkit so that clinics can adopt the program for youths who have experienced moral and spiritual distress.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could reduce MIS symptoms and improve mental health and daily functioning for affected youth.
How similar studies have gone: Prior trials showed BSS reduces PTSD symptoms and spiritual distress, suggesting potential benefits for MIS in youth.
Where this research is happening
-
Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys
North Little Rock, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pyne, Jeffrey M. — Central Arkansas Veterans Hlthcare Sys
- Study coordinator: Pyne, Jeffrey M.
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.