Cognitive Training Video Game to Target Subclinical Depressive Symptoms in Youth

Cognitive Training Video Game to Target Subclinical Depressive Symptoms in Youth

The purpose of the study is to determine how cognitive control training (CCT) changes behavior in youth with subclinical depressive symptoms. This research will show what types of behavior changes are important for CCT to help reduce depressive symptoms. In the future, this information will be used to try to improve prevention of the development of depression, so that it can help more patients.

The primary study investigator acknowledges contributions from Kate Fitzgerald, Emily Bilek, Christopher Monk, and Adriene Beltz.

Inclusion criteria:

1. Parent or guardian willing to give informed consent, and children willing to give informed assent to participate in the study.
2. Males and females (age 9 - 17.99)
3. Participant is willing to engage in a technology-based intervention (technology will be provided to participants who live in the state of Michigan, if not already accessible to participant).
4. Self-reported depressive symptoms (Children's Depression Inventory [CDI] score between 3-19 at Assessment 1)
5. Participants will be required to maintain a stable dose of medications

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

1. Color blindness
2. Unable to play the video game for any reason
3. Current Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (K-SADS) diagnosis of clinical depression, psychosis, or Autism Spectrum Disorder
4. Has enrolled in new psychotherapy (for the treatment of a mood or anxiety disorder) or had changes to their psychotherapy in the 4-weeks prior to study enrollment
5. Endorses items #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, or #6 on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) Screener (Past-Month); i.e., has present suicidal intention/behavior.
6. Has had any changes to their medication in the 4-weeks prior to study enrollment