Using Harry Potter to Improve Mental Wellness in Children
Harry Potter as a Novel Educational Paradigm to Improve Mental Wellness in Children: A Prospective Trial
This study is trying to see if using the book 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban' in schools can help 7th and 8th graders learn coping skills and improve their mental health.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 3204 (estimated) |
| Ages | 11 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT04770168 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This intervention focuses on a school-based mental health literacy program that utilizes the book 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban' to teach students coping strategies based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). The program aims to reduce suicidal ideation and self-harm behaviors among students in Grades 7 and 8 by enhancing their understanding of mental health issues. Participants will engage in reading and discussions over approximately three months, with assessments conducted to measure changes in mental health outcomes. The study builds on previous successful mental health literacy interventions and aims to provide a unique approach to mental wellness in youth.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are students in Grade 7 and 8 who can read and speak fluent English.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in Grades 7 or 8 or those who cannot communicate in English may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, improving their overall mental health and well-being.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with mental health literacy interventions, indicating that this approach may be effective, though the specific use of Harry Potter as a curriculum is novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Only schools with Grade 7 and 8 classrooms (if requested, we may allow high school teachers/students in Grade 9 - 12 to participate as well) * Participants must be able to speak and read fluent English * Participants must be willing to complete demographic and clinical self-report questionnaires on anxiety, depression, and general well-being before the intervention and at each timepoint. Exclusion Criteria: \-
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mark Sinyor, MD
- Email: mark.sinyor@sunnybrook.ca
- Phone: 416-480-4070
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.