FaceSay: a computer program to help kids recognize facial expressions and improve social interactions

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot randomized trial compares FaceSay with an active control (SuccessMaker) in children aged 6-13 who are survivors of pediatric brain tumors. Participants are randomized 1:1 and evaluated at baseline, after 18 weeks (end of intervention), and at 3-month follow-up to assess feasibility, acceptability, and effects on facial affect recognition, social attention, and social adjustment. The study is conducted at CHOP, with about 40 participants, over approximately 18 weeks including a 6-week intervention and three in-person visits. FaceSay targets social functioning domains that are often impacted after pediatric brain tumor treatment, using a single-site design.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

Eligible participants are SPBT who:

1. are between the ages 6-13
2. completed some form of tumor-directed treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation therapy)
3. are off tumor-directed therapy
4. demonstrate difficulties on at least one of the following:

   1. Parent- or self-rated Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Peer Relationships Short Form: T-score 1 standard deviation below the mean, which translates to T scores of 40 or below
   2. Social Responsiveness Scale-2 (SRS-2): T-score above 60 on any scale
   3. Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL): T-score below 30 on social competence scale or T-score above 64 on social problems subscale

Exclusion Criteria:

Ineligible participants are individuals who:

1. have a genetic condition affecting neurocognitive or social function, or severe developmental delays (excluding NF1, ASD, and Moya Moya)
2. are non-English speaking (FaceSay is only available in English and some assessments only have been validated in English)

4\) a motor or visual limitation that precludes computer use

Where it's running

• Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
  Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Matthew Hocking, PhD (Clinical Psychology)
• Email: hockingm@chop.edu
• Phone: 267-426-5561

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.