What is it about?
This paper reviewed the literature for studies that used phones (texting, calling, apps) to improve the mental and/or overall health of youth who face overlapping adversities--such as identifying with more than one minority identities. Based on the findings, we stress the importance of: 1) collaborating with diverse and representative teens, clinical/research staff; 2) incorporating evidence-based therapies with minority-focused theories; 3) using mobile device capabilities-like texting; and 4) considering and assessing for potential costs in using phones to deliver care.
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Photo by Štefan Štefančík on Unsplash
Why is it important?
Most people have access to phones and the things that they can do--like calling, texting, or using apps. Phones may be a helpful way to reach and improve the health of youth who face a lot of barriers to in-person care. However, it's critical to involve such youth in every step of developing, testing, and rolling out any of these interventions into the real-world settings of these youth.
Perspectives
People often think of technology in terms of "high tech" and the most advanced devices. One of things we have learned is that varying levels of technology are around many of us and are available in highly varied contexts. Recognizing these tools and the ways they can be used for engagement can create new avenues to reach youth in underserved communities.
Dr. Niranjan Karnik
Rush University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Harnessing Phones to Target Pediatric Populations with Socially Complex Needs: Systematic Review, JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting, August 2020, JMIR Publications Inc.,
DOI: 10.2196/19269.
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