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YOUCA App for Parents of Children With Mental Health Issues: A Pilot Study of Usability and Efficacy
Sponsor: FH Campus Wien, University of Applied Sciences
Summary
Parents play an important role in supporting their children's mental health but often feel unsure how to respond to emotional or mental health difficulties. To address this need, the PsyGes project developed the Youngsters Upbringing Mental Health Information and Counselling App (YOUCA), a smartphone app that provides parents with information, practical guidance, daily tips, communication strategies, a mental health glossary, and a directory of support services. This study aims to evaluate the usability and potential effectiveness of YOUCA in improving parenting skills and parental self-efficacy (confidence in supporting a child). In this mixed-methods randomized waitlist-controlled pilot study, approximately 25 parents of children with mental health difficulties will participate. Participants will use the app over a four-week period and complete questionnaires before and after use. App usability and satisfaction will also be assessed. Interviews with parents and a focus group with psychosocial experts will provide additional feedback to support further app development and future larger-scale evaluation.
Official title: Usability and Preliminary Efficacy of the Youngsters Upbringing Mental Health Information and Counselling App (YOUCA) for Parents of Children With Mental Health Issues: Study Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Pilot Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
25
Start Date
2026-08
Completion Date
2026-12
Last Updated
2026-08-14
Healthy Volunteers
Yes
Interventions
App YOUCA (prototype)
Youngsters Upbringing Mental Health Counseling App (YOUCA) to provide parents and caregivers with accessible professional guidance. YOUCA aims to strengthen parenting skills, to empower parents by helping them with strategies to support their children, particularly in times of emotional difficulty and provide the opportunity to seek professional help.
Locations (1)
Hochschule Campus Wien
Vienna, Austria