Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-Based Chatbot for Non-suicidal Self-Injury in Adolescents
Sponsor: Central China Normal University
Summary
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a self-guided digital Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention for adolescents who engage in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). The intervention is delivered through a mobile-based program and consists of seven modules focusing on acceptance, cognitive defusion, present-moment awareness, self-as-context, values, and committed action. Adolescents will complete the intervention over a 3-week period and will be randomly assigned to the intervention or control condition. The study will examine whether the digital ACT intervention can reduce NSSI and improve psychological flexibility and other indicators of mental health, including depression, anxiety, hope, and emotion regulation.
Official title: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-Based Chatbot for Non-suicidal Self-Injury in Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
10 Years - 19 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
100
Start Date
2026-10-08
Completion Date
2027-03-01
Last Updated
2026-09-30
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
ACT-Based Chatbot
The intervention is a fully automated, text-based chatbot delivered via a mobile application or web platform. It is based on the core processes of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Over three weeks, participants will engage with the chatbot for approximately 10 minutes per day, 3 days per week. The chatbot delivers structured modules covering: (1) acceptance and willingness to experience difficult emotions; (2) cognitive defusion techniques; (3) present-moment awareness; (4) self-as-context; (5) values clarification; and (6) committed action. The chatbot includes safety protocols that provide crisis resources and emergency contact information if participants report severe self-harm urges or suicidal ideation. The intervention is designed to be self-guided, with no human therapist involvement, to ensure scalability and accessibility.