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Peer Academic Supports for Success: Pilot Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial
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  • Maryann Davis,
  • Dori Hutchinson,
  • Paul Cherchia,
  • Bo Wang,
  • Laura Golden,
  • Emily Morrison,
  • Amanda Baczko
Maryann Davis
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Department of Psychiatry

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Dori Hutchinson
Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation
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Paul Cherchia
Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation
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Bo Wang
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences
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Laura Golden
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Department of Psychiatry
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Emily Morrison
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences
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Amanda Baczko
University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School Department of Psychiatry
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Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Mental health conditions are prevalent among university students, putting them at elevated risk for dropout. Universities offer an array of peer programs, and students often share their concerns with peers before professionals. A well-specified peer intervention to help sustain academic persistence that colleges can directly offer their undergraduates with mental health conditions should benefit this population. The Peer Academic Supports for Success coaching model was developed to address this need. OBJECTIVE: This study’s goal was to conduct a feasibility study of the Peer Academic Supports for Success model and feasibility of randomized controlled trial research methods. METHODS: Seventy-two undergraduate students with academically impairing mental health conditions were randomized to receive Peer Academic Supports for Success versus an active control condition. Survey data were collected at baseline and at the end of the next two semesters. Official transcripts were obtained. Intervention implementation data were assessed through coach and participant report. RESULTS: Peer Academic Supports for Success was delivered with fidelity, successfully attracted and retained students, and was safe. Randomized controlled trial methods proved feasible. Findings revealed significant treatment effects on several of the targeted proximal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest Peer Academic Supports for Success is a promising university-based intervention to support young adult students with mental health conditions and should be tested in a robust clinical trial.
Submitted to Early Intervention in Psychiatry
04 Mar 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
09 Jun 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
13 Jun 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
10 Aug 20241st Revision Received
11 Aug 2024Submission Checks Completed
11 Aug 2024Assigned to Editor
11 Aug 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending