Digital Therapeutics for Behavior Problems

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH · Dec 8, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring the effectiveness of a mobile health app designed to help children aged 5 to 8 who struggle with disruptive behaviors, such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorders (CD). The study will compare two versions of the app: one that parents can use on their own and another that includes support from a coach. A total of 324 children will be involved, and they will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: using the standalone app, the coach-assisted app, or a control app that does not provide these interventions.

To participate, children should be between 5 and 8 years old and show significant behavior challenges as identified by a specific assessment tool. It’s important that they live with at least one parent or guardian most of the time and that the parent has a smartphone with internet access. However, children with serious mental health conditions or those already receiving treatment for similar behavior issues will not be eligible for this study. If your child meets these criteria and you’re interested in helping us understand how technology can support behavior management, this trial could be a great opportunity!

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Males or females between the ages of 5-8 years
• • Above the 90th percentile for Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and/or conduct disorders (CD) on the Vanderbilt Assessment Scale
• • Residence with at least one parent/guardian at least 80% of the time
• • Parent/legal guardian consent for participation
• • Parent/guardian must have a smartphone device with daily internet access
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • A known preexisting behavioral or mental health diagnosis requiring alternative treatment (bipolar disorder, major depression, pervasive developmental disorder)
• • Currently in treatment for childhood disruptive behavior

Trial Officials