Introduction: This thesis seeks to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of using text messages (SMS) to improve psychological wellbeing amongst young people involved in the Youth Justice System. As this group are likely to be exposed to risk factors impacting on their psychological health, yet unlikely to access mainstream health services, the provision of alternative and accessible interventions for this group should be a key priority for service providers, commissioners and academics alike. Method: A systematic review of the literature and meta analyses to explore current findings in relation to the use of text message interventions to improve psychological wellbeing in the broader adolescent population is presented in Chapter Two. In total 2,496 studies were identified, ten of which met full inclusion criteria. No significant pooled differences were evident between intervention and control groups. Reported effects and the feasibility of the approach are discussed. Findings indicate that, to date, there is no available research in relation to the use of an SMS approach to promote wellbeing amongst young people in the YJS. In preparation for a feasibility study to explore this, the psychometric properties of the KIDSCREEN questionnaires are considered in Chapter Three. Here the reliability and the validity of the tool is evidenced indicating its appropriateness for the use in the proceeding empirical research. The rationale and development of an SMS intervention to encourage self-determination and improve psychological wellbeing, co-designed with service users, are discussed in Chapter Four. In Chapter Five, the findings of the mixed methods feasibility study are presented. Conclusion: No significant differences in wellbeing were found between participants’ pre and post KIDSCREEN scores. Significant findings indicate that the intervention may be more acceptable for those with poorer wellbeing and for those subject to diversionary intervention as VAS scores (assessing acceptability of the approach) correlated with lower KIDSCREEN scores (pre intervention) and type of intervention (diversionary or statutory) respectively. Five themes emerged from the semi- structured interviews highlighting important factors to consider when designing or implementing an intervention of this nature for this hard to reach population. A synthesis of the findings is presented in the concluding chapter where recommendations for future enquiry are considered.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:757557 |
| Date | January 2018 |
| Creators | Goodman, Karla |
| Publisher | University of Nottingham |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Source | http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/52398/ |
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