Exploring how civic engagement affects youth health and wellbeing
The I-ACTED Study: Testing the Causal Effects of a Civic Engagement Intervention on Health and Wellbeing Among Youth
This study is testing if getting young people involved in community activities can improve their health and wellbeing, especially for those from marginalized backgrounds.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 2500 (estimated) |
| Ages | 10 Years to 20 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Wake Forest University Health Sciences Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Winston-Salem, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT04514133 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research investigates the impact of an action civics curriculum on the health and wellbeing of young people. Students from selected schools will participate by completing surveys during class and online to assess their civic engagement and sense of community. The study aims to establish causal links between civic participation and improvements in mental, physical, and behavioral health outcomes, particularly for marginalized youth. By understanding these relationships, the research seeks to highlight the transformative potential of civic engagement in fostering better health among young individuals.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are middle or high school students enrolled in participating schools and courses.
Not a fit: Students not enrolled in the action civics curriculum or those from non-participating schools may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance youth mental health and wellbeing through increased civic engagement.
How similar studies have performed: While there is correlational evidence supporting the benefits of civic engagement on health, this study aims to establish causal relationships, making it a novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Currently enrolled Middle or High School student * Enrolled in a course with a teacher from a school participating in the study
Where this trial is running
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Wake Forest School of Medicine — Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Parissa J Ballard, PhD — Assistant Professor
- Study coordinator: Parissa J Ballard, PhD
- Email: pballard@wakehealth.edu
- Phone: 336-716-0793
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.