305990
Online Role-Play Simulations with Intelligent Avatars for Early Detection of Native Youth Psychological Distress Including Depression and Suicidal Ideation
Gatekeeper training is a method to engage the community in identifying and connecting distressed individuals with support services but studies show that even though knowledge increases, there is a minimal impact on actual behaviors. One cause identified is lack of active learning strategies like role-plays. With respect to AI/AN populations, there are also concerns about cultural specificity of trainings developed for general audiences.
A study was conducted that examined the impact of four online gatekeeper training simulations where 983 AI/AN educators and students learned motivational interviewing (MI) skills by engaging in role-play practice with intelligent and emotionally responsive avatars. Results from 86 matched pairs show significant increases (p<.05) in Total Gatekeeper Skills and Gatekeeper Self-Efficacy from pre- to post-training that were sustained at the 3-month follow-up. Participants also reported significant increases (p<.05) in the number of students identified in distress, approached to discuss their concern, and referred to support services.
This training offers numerous advantages for it is sustainable, addresses high workforce turnover, utilizes realistic role-plays that employ non-judgmental MI strategies, can be taken in private and are highly standardized.
Learning Areas:
Administer health education strategies, interventions and programsAdvocacy for health and health education
Planning of health education strategies, interventions, and programs
Provision of health care to the public
Public health or related education
Learning Objectives:
Discuss the use of new online role-play gatekeeper training simulations and the associated outcome measures that support early detection of psychological distress in native youth including depression and suicidal ideation.
Keyword(s): Child/Adolescent Mental Health, School-Based Health
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Mental Health Professionals, Teachers, Educators, School Administrators and Mental Health Clinic Administrators
Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: Dr. Jami Bartgis, an enrolled citizen of the Cherokee Nation (Oklahoma), is a clinical psychologist and serves as CEO of One Fire Associates, a community-based research and evaluation firm. She has spent her career working for tribal and urban American Indian communities across the US; supporting health systems development, participatory research, and direct clinical practice. Dr. Bartgis holds a courtesy faculty appointment at the Florida Mental Health Institute, Department of Child and Family Studies.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.