More About The Study

About the Study

The CREATE lab at the University of Maryland, College Park, led by Dr. Henry Willis, is conducting a research study to improve understanding of how Black youth experience and are affected by online racism. We are developing a mobile health (mHealth) app to help Black youth navigate online racism and cope with mental health problems using culturally-specific coping processes.

We invite your child to participate in virtual focus groups exploring their experiences with online racism. This is an opportunity for your child to help design a free, digital psychosocial intervention to improve the mental health of Black youth nationwide. Their feedback is valuable in ensuring the mHealth tool is seen as acceptable by other Black youth.

Eligibility:

Black or African American-identifying youth aged 13 to 17 years.

Currently enrolled in traditional U.S. middle or high schools.

Active on social media for at least one hour per day and at least weekly for the past year.

What to Expect:

Virtual Focus Groups:

Your child will participate in small focus groups conducted over password-protected Zoom meetings. Audio or video recording is required

Discussion Topics:

Groups will discuss mental health, online racism, and coping strategies. Participants will also develop design ideas for a mobile health app.

Time Commitment:

Meeting 2hours long There will be five focus group meetings .

Compensation:

Participants can earn $100 per focus group, up to a total of $00. Compensation is provided via a reloadable electronic gift card within 24 hours of each focus group.

Empowering Black Youth: Shape the Future of Mental Health Support