Community Discussions and Social Participation

Digital, Community-Advised, Social Action Cluster-Randomized Trial to Increase Civic Participation and Social Connection in the US

This study evaluates a virtual program designed to boost the physical well-being goals, civic engagement, social connection, and anxiety of U.S. adults.

This single-blind, cluster randomized controlled trial aims to develop a virtual intervention designed to support US adults who wish to work with others to achieve physical wellbeing goals, improve social connectedness, promote community engagement, and reduce anxiety. Research coordinators randomize 10 participants to facilitator-led intervention sessions, and 10 to self-run discussion sessions by assigning random computer generated codes, sorting in ascending order, and alternating "control" and "experimental" assignments. This project is funded by the Annenberg Endowment of the Division of Communication Science.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age: 18 years or older
• Residency: Must live in a U.S. state (including D.C. and U.S. territories)
• Technology access: Reliable internet, a webcam, and Zoom capability in a private space
• Language: Able to read and speak English (all materials and sessions are in English)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to provide informed consent
• Under 18 years of age
• Not living in the U.S.
• Lack of reliable access to the required technology (e.g., internet-connected device)
• Unable to read and understand English at the level required for full participation in the study activities