JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

One of the most common reasons why young people with mental heath problems such as PTSD do not seek help is stigma, which could be addressed with digital forms of support. However, there is a lack of trauma support apps developed specifically for young people. Involving the target group in such projects has proven to lead to more engaging and useful results.

Objective:

This study aimed to apply a child rights based participatory approach to develop a trauma support app with young people.

Methods:

Seven young people (14-19yrs; 3 male, 4 female) with own experiences of trauma were recruited through as co-researchers in the project. A child rights based framework was applied to the working process. The app was developed through a series of Design Studio workshops and home assignments. The co-researchers were then trained in research methodology and conducted usability testing of the app with other young people (n=11) using the think aloud method, System Usability Scale and qualitative follow up questions.

Results:

Contributions of the co-researchers to the design can be considered in three categories: mechanics (rules and interactions that inform the structure of the app), dynamics (what the user can actually see, e.g. the outcome when the user presses a button) and aesthetics, which relate to the desirable emotional responses evoked in the user when they interact with the app. Beyond influence on basic aesthetics, the co-researchers placed great emphasis on the user experience and the emotional responses that could be evoked. The usability testing resulted in a number of usability issues being identified, with varying but generally lower severity levels.

Conclusions:

Young people, who may be considered vulnerable due to their experience of trauma, can be involved in the co-creation of a mental health intervention and provide knowledge about the needs and wishes of young people. Applying a child rights-based framework to the involvement of young people with their own experience of trauma in a research project enabled the fulfilment of CRC Article 12.