Stress Physiology and Intervention Feasibility Among First Responder Parents

Stress Physiology and Intervention Feasibility Among First Responder Parents

The specific aims of this study are to: 1. Demonstrate the usability and acceptability of a smart watch in parents to remotely monitor stress responses or symptoms in individuals participating in prevention or treatment interventions. 2. Examine the association between heart rate variability (HRV) data and momentary self-reports of stress by parents. 3. Conduct a feasibility study to establish the effectiveness of wearables and apps to improve emotion regulation in the short term (minutes, hours) and concomitant social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes over the longer-term (weeks).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Have at least one child between the ages of 4 and 13 that resides with them in states of Kentucky or Tennessee
• Be able to wear a wrist-based wearable device
• Be able to read, write, and speak in English
• Not be allergic to polycarbonate or silicone
• Have a smart phone
• Work full time (at least 30 hours/week) as a first responder OR be a co-parent (defined as living in the same home and shares parenting responsibilities) of an eligible first responder

Exclusion Criteria:

• Do not have a child in the specified age range
• Have a child in the specified age range but who does not reside with them
• Are first responders who average less than 30 hours/week
• Are not a cohabitating parent
• Are a co-parent of eligible first responders who is not participating in the study