JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Family-based interventions (FBIs) aimed at improving family functioning are shown to impact and improve a myriad of adolescent health outcomes. However, the breadth of ecological momentary interventions targeting family functioning behaviors among youth and their families is unknown.

Objective:

The objective of this scoping review is to understand the extent of ecological momentary interventions targeting family functioning behaviors among adolescents aged 10-17 years and their families.

Methods:

A scoping review will be conducted using the PRISMA-ScR framework. Databases used will include Embase, PsycINFO, Medline, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science. The search will include all eligible studies published up to and including December 2025. Studies published in any language will be considered. This scoping review will consider: 1) empirical studies (e.g., randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, pilot and feasibility studies, observational studies, and formative research) and intervention protocols, 2) studies published in any language, 3) interventions including a participating adolescent between the ages of 10 and 17 years, 4) the development or testing of one or more ecological momentary interventions (EMIs), 5) primary or secondary outcome includes family functioning behaviors. Exclusion criteria include: 1) parent-only EMIs, 2) does not assess family functioning dimension as primary or secondary outcome. Two independent reviewers will assess and screen articles and perform data extraction. Article screening for inclusion will include a round of title and abstract screening and then a second round of full manuscript screening. Data extracted will include: authors, year of publication, geographic location, study design, adolescent age (range, mean, standard deviation), total sample size and characteristics (sex/gender of participants, race/ethnic breakdown), description of EMI, family functioning-related outcome(s), health-related outcome(s), duration (e.g., number of days/weeks) and intensity (e.g., multiple times of days) of intervention, and EMI platform used (if applicable). Review results will be descriptive.

Results:

The search was conducted in December 2025. Study screening and data extraction will take place between June 1, 2026 and August 31, 2026. Data synthesis and final manuscript preparation will be completed by October 31, 2026.

Conclusions:

This scoping review will examine the landscape of the use of ecological momentary interventions to impact family functioning behaviors within family systems, including adolescents between the ages of 10-17 years.