WhatsOK Helpline for Teens with Sexual Thoughts or Behaviors
Official title: A Randomized Control Trial Evaluation of WhatsOK for the Primary Prevention of Problematic Sexual Behaviors Among Youth
Run by Center for Violence Prevention Research Inc · NCT07525778 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests a youth-focused helpline to support teens ages 14–17 who have concerns about their sexual thoughts or behaviors.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 14 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 920 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Center for Violence Prevention Research Inc Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Jacksonville, Florida) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 6, 2026 |
| Main results expected | September 29, 2028 |
| Study ends | September 29, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | October 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07525778 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are English-speaking adolescents aged 14–17 who have concerns about their sexual thoughts or behaviors and have not previously contacted a helpline.
✕Probably not a fit
Youth without concerns about sexual thoughts or behaviors or those outside the eligible age range may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study describes the use of the WhatsOK helpline to provide information, guidance, and support to adolescents with concerns about sexual thoughts or behaviors. It involves direct contact through a helpline staffed by professionals and aims to address safety, education, and coping strategies. Eligible participants are youth aged 14–17 who can read and speak English and have not previously contacted a similar helpline. The setting includes collaboration between Stop it Now!’s initiative and UC Berkeley, with a lead site in Jacksonville, Florida. No study procedures beyond helpline contact are described here as part of this overview.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Participants may gain understanding, reassurance, and practical strategies to manage concerns and reduce risk.
How similar studies have gone: There is existing use of youth-focused helplines for related concerns, but this specific youth-centric helpline is a relatively targeted approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * must be ages 14-17 years at baseline * must have concerns about their sexual thoughts or behaviors * must be able to read, write, and speak in English Exclusion Criteria: * Under 14 or over 17 years of age * Does not have concerns about their sexual thoughts or behaviors * Previously contacted a helpline or hotline for concerns about their sexual thoughts or behaviors * Is not able to read, write, or speak in English * Does not consent to participate
Where it's running
-
Center for Violence Prevention Research
Jacksonville, Florida, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Melissa Bright, PhD
- Email: mbright@scienceofviolence.org
- Phone: 904-728-1020
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.