Using mindfulness training to help youth manage negative emotions

Targeting negative affect through mindfulness training in youth at risk for internalizing problems

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University · NIH-10901828

This study is testing a mindfulness app to see if it can help teenagers aged 12-16 who might be feeling anxious or down, by helping them manage their negative emotions better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10901828 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effectiveness of an app-based mindfulness intervention designed to reduce negative emotions in adolescents aged 12-16 who are at risk for anxiety and depression. Participants will engage in a randomized controlled trial where they will either receive the mindfulness training or be part of a control group that only undergoes assessments. The study will utilize ecological momentary assessment to track participants' mood and emotional states throughout the trial. By focusing on reducing negative affectivity, the research aims to prevent the development of internalizing disorders in young people.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-16 who exhibit high levels of negative affectivity and are at risk for developing internalizing problems.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience significant negative affectivity or who are outside the age range of 12-16 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel, accessible tool for youth to manage their emotions and reduce the risk of anxiety and depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results for mindfulness interventions in reducing anxiety and depression, suggesting that this approach may be effective for youth as well.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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 Anxiety Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.