RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Exploring Empathy and Compassion Using Digital Narratives

This research explores how digital stories—like short videos shared online—can help people understand mental health struggles better. We're looking at two main types of stories: those used in charity campaigns and personal stories shared by everyday people. The study aims to understand how these different stories make viewers feel more empathy and compassion, which means truly understanding and caring about what others are going through. We also want to find out what it's like for people who create these digital stories about their own difficult experiences. The goal is to see if sharing these stories can help reduce misunderstandings and stigma around mental health, and encourage people to be more supportive and involved in their communities. It's about learning how these digital tools can create positive change.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

McGill University

Enrolment target

Start

01 Apr 2024

Estimated completion

30 Dec 2024

Mental Disorders, Severe Mental Illness Stigma, Social Compassion Empathy

What is this study about?

Imagine sharing your personal journey, perhaps a tough time, through a short video online. Or think about those videos you see from charities asking for support, often sharing someone's story. This study, called 'Exploring Empathy and Compassion Using Digital Narratives,' is all about these kinds of digital stories.

We know that stories about mental health in the news and on TV don't always show a fair picture. Sometimes, they can even make people with mental health challenges seem scary or different. But with the internet, people can now share their own stories, and charities can create new types of campaigns. This study wants to understand how these new ways of sharing stories, especially about mental and emotional difficulties, can honestly affect how we, as viewers, feel and react. It's about seeing if these stories can truly build empathy (understanding someone's feelings) and compassion (wanting to help someone).

The researchers are particularly interested in a few things: First, they're comparing how mental health stories are shown in big charity campaigns versus when ordinary people share their own, self-made videos. Second, they want to understand what it's like for the people who create these personal digital stories—how does revisiting their tough moments and turning them into a video help them? Finally, and very importantly, the study wants to see how watching these videos affects us, the viewers. Does it really make us more understanding, compassionate, and more likely to act kindly towards others? The hope is to learn how digital storytelling can help break down some of the negative ideas people have about mental health.

Key takeaways

This study explores how digital stories about mental health affect viewers' understanding and feelings.
It compares stories from charities with personal, self-made videos.
Researchers want to see if these stories build empathy, compassion, and reduce stigma.
It also examines what it's like for people who create these personal mental health stories.
If you're aged 18-35 and not in hospital, you might be eligible to take part.
Participation could involve workshops, interviews, or watching videos.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 35 years old. This age range is important for what the researchers are trying to find out.

It's also important that you are not currently staying in a hospital. If you are, unfortunately, you won't be able to take part in this particular study.

Additionally, if you've already participated in one of the digital storytelling workshops run by this study and created a digital story for their main research, you wouldn't be able to join again.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 35 years old?
Are you currently not staying in a hospital?
Have you NOT already made a digital story for this specific study's main trial?
Do you have an interest in mental health stories and their impact?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you might be asked to take part in different activities. Some people might attend digital storytelling workshops, where you would learn how to create your own short video telling a personal story. This would involve interviews before and after the workshop to understand your experience. Other people might be part of a group that looks at social marketing and fundraising campaigns related to mental health.

The study will involve several phases, including some interviews where you might be asked about your thoughts and feelings regarding mental health stories. There will also be a small test study to see how things work before the main research. The overall time commitment will depend on which part of the study you participate in, but it will involve interviews and potentially workshop attendance.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer some benefits, such as the chance to learn digital storytelling skills, share your experiences in a supportive environment, and contribute to a better understanding of mental health and compassion. You might find a sense of catharsis or connection by sharing your story. While the risks are likely low, revisiting difficult memories could be emotionally challenging for some. You are always free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your care or your relationship with the researchers.

Locations (1)

McGill University
Verified postcode
Montreal, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What kind of stories will I be looking at or creating?

You'll be looking at or creating short digital videos, like those shared online, focusing on experiences of mental and emotional well-being or struggle.

What does 'empathy and compassion' mean in this study?

It means understanding and sharing the feelings of others (empathy) and having a genuine desire to help those who are suffering (compassion).

Will my story be shared publicly if I create one?

The study aims to understand the impact of these stories. You would discuss with the research team how your story might be used, ensuring any sharing aligns with your comfort and consent.

Do I need any special skills to join?

No, you don't need filmmaking skills or any special background. The study includes workshops to help you if you are creating a digital story.

Where is this study taking place?

The workshops and recruitment are happening in Montreal, Canada, often in community centres and university campuses.

How to find out more

Manuela Ferrari, PhD

manuela.ferrari@mcgill.ca 4169270075 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.