Title: The Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Intervention for the Management of Psychosocial Factors Associated with Emotional Intelligence in Adolescents with Physical Disability: A Randomized Control Trial
Objective: This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) in managing psychosocial factors associated with emotional intelligence (EI) in adolescents with physical disabilities. It also seeks to assess the safety and overall impact of the intervention.
Main Questions:
Does the mindfulness-based intervention improve emotional intelligence in adolescents with physical disabilities? Does the psychosocial factors like psychological distress, self-compassion improve during the intervention? Are there any adverse effects associated with the mindfulness-based intervention?
Study Design:
Participants: Adolescents aged 10-18 years with a diagnosed physical disability.
Intervention: Mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) compared to a control group receiving no intervention.
Duration: 8 weeks Follow-Up: Participants will be assessed at baseline, mid-intervention (4 weeks), immediately post-intervention (8 weeks), and at a 3-month follow-up.
Methodology:
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
Intervention Group: Will participate in the mindfulness-based intervention, which includes weekly mindfulness sessions and daily mindfulness practices at home.
Control Group: Will not receive any intervention but will continue with their usual activities along with some breathing exercises by the researcher.
Procedures:
Mindfulness Sessions: Weekly group sessions led by a trained mindfulness instructor, focusing on techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, and body awareness.
Daily Practice: Participants in the intervention group will be instructed to practice mindfulness techniques daily and will receive support materials (e.g., audio recordings, practice guides).
Assessment:
Emotional Intelligence: Measured using the Schulte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT) at all assessment points.
Psychosocial Factors: Evaluated using standardized questionnaires such as the Child and Adolescent Trauma Screen (CATS) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS).
Adverse Effects: Monitored through regular check-ins and a diary where participants can record any negative experiences.
Visit Schedule:
Baseline Visit: Initial assessment and randomization. Weekly Check-ins: Short visits or calls to monitor progress and adherence. Mid-Intervention (4 weeks): Comprehensive assessment of EI and psychosocial factors.
Post-Intervention (8 weeks): Final assessment of EI and psychosocial factors, collection of feedback on the intervention.
3-Month Follow-Up: Long-term assessment of sustained effects.
Participant Responsibilities:
Attend Weekly Sessions: Attend all scheduled mindfulness sessions. Daily Practice: Engage in daily mindfulness exercises and record their practice.
Keep a Diary: Maintain a diary or emotional response log of their emotional state, psychosocial experiences, and any adverse effects.
Outcome Measures:
Primary Outcome: Improvement in emotional intelligence as measured by SSEIT scores.
Secondary Outcomes:
Reduction in psychosocial distress as indicated by DASS scores. Improvement in trauma-related symptoms as measured by CATS. Monitoring and documentation of any adverse effects. Significance: This study aims to provide evidence on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in enhancing emotional intelligence and managing psychosocial challenges in adolescents with physical disabilities, potentially offering a valuable tool for improving their overall well-being.
