Unified protocol in online group versus blended format for treating emotional disorders in university students: Preliminary results on feasibility at 6-month follow-up
Abstract
Introduction: Emotional Disorders (EDs) are highly prevalent among university students, with only a small percentage (16.4%) receiving treatment. This study examines the feasibility and acceptability of delivering the Unified Protocol (UP) in two scalable formats and explores preliminary clinical outcomes in a university student population.
Methods: Thirty-five university students (80% women, mean age = 21.29 years, SD = 1.87) with primary diagnoses of EDs were randomly assigned to either the blended-UP condition (n = 18) or the synchronous online UP condition (n = 17). The intervention involved 8 UP modules, delivered as either 9 weekly 2-h synchronous online group sessions or a blended format (4 synchronous online group sessions for modules 1, 4, 6 and 7+ autonomous work via the UP-APP). Depression, anxiety, transdiagnostic variables, difficulties in emotion regulation, maladjustment and quality of life were assessed at baseline, post-treatment and at 3- and 6-month followups. Satisfaction with the intervention received was also measured.
Results: Statistically significant changes were observed over time (main effect of time) for all evaluated variables (except in quality of life and positive temperament), with no 'Time × Condition' interaction, meaning that the scores evolved similarly in both conditions. Participants reported high satisfaction scores (8.91/10 in the blended condition and 9.38/10 in the synchronous online UP condition) and rated highly how the…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 18 participants or records.
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