R4Power: An Online Resilience Program for Adolescents

This study examines the feasibility of a 10-lesson web-based intervention, the R4Power
program, and its effectiveness in preventing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The R4Power
Program teaches cognitive and problem-solving skills covered in classroom based
interventions, including the Penn Resiliency Program, that have been found to reduce or
prevent symptoms of depression in children and adolescents. This study examines whether
adolescents can benefit from learning these skills through a computer (rather than
classroom) intervention.

Adolescents in grades 6 through 8 who participate in this study will be assigned to one of
two conditions: an intervention group that will complete the R4Power program during the
first year (R4Power1), or a waitlist control group that will complete the R4Power program
the following year (R4Power2). Students will complete the 10-lesson program over the course
of twelve weeks. They will learn and practice cognitive skills (recognizing the link between
their thoughts and feelings, identifying thinking traps, challenging their negative beliefs)
and problem-solving skills (assertiveness, relaxation and distraction, overcoming
procrastination, and decision making). Adolescents who participate in this study will be
followed for one year, and their coping responses and symptoms of depression and anxiety
will be assessed at four points: at the beginning of the study (baseline) and at follow-up
assessments approximately 4, 12 and 16 months after baseline.

Inclusion Criteria:

- 6th-8th grade students attending participating school OR adolescents aged 11-15
living in greater Philadelphia area

- Access to high speed internet connection (at home, school, or another location)

Exclusion Criteria:

- Below 6th grade reading level, as reported by parents