Using a chatbot on social media to help youth facing online bullying
Social Media Intervention for OnLinE Victimized Youth
This study is testing a friendly chatbot on social media that helps teens who are being bullied online, especially Black and LGBTQ+ youth, by providing support and resources to prevent mental health problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875393 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of an automated chatbot intervention delivered through social media to support adolescents who experience online victimization. The chatbot aims to identify and address instances of online bullying, particularly among Black and sexual and gender minority youth, who are at higher risk for depression and suicidal thoughts. By integrating this technology into primary care settings, the project seeks to enhance the ability of healthcare providers to assist affected youth. The intervention focuses on early detection and prevention of mental health issues linked to online harassment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who have experienced online victimization and may be showing signs of depression or suicidal thoughts.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing online victimization or do not have depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel tool for reducing online victimization and improving mental health outcomes for vulnerable youth.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using technology-based interventions for mental health support, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Escobar-Viera, César Gabriel — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Escobar-Viera, César Gabriel
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 below.