Exploring the relevance of a psychology-based resilience app (JoyPop™) for Indigenous youth

Abstract

BackgroundDespite facing challenges to mental wellness from ongoing multifold trauma, Indigenous youth continue to galvanize their resilience. One pathway undertaken is embracing technology. The JoyPop™ youth resilience mobile application (app) was invited by Six Nations of the Grand River (SN) leadership to consider its use with their reserve youth. ObjectiveThis study explored the feasibility of JoyPop™ research from the SN community adult perspective for appropriateness and relevance to SN youth, as a precursor to a user-experience study with community youth. MethodsSemi-structured, online interviews with 19 adult community members (26 % male) about JoyPop™ were conducted with nominated stakeholders from SN. Based on a standard presentation of the app, comments were solicited about app features, design, and relevance to Haudenosaunee culture. Interviews were transcribed, coded in a double-blind fashion, and analyzed for themes. ResultsMost offered positive feedback, with some level of support for each feature of JoyPop™. Themes were identified (Need for Indigenous Design, Incorporation of Indigenous Culture, Appreciation of Ease, Flexibility and Personalization), stemming from comments of appraisal and suggestions for adaptations (e.g., incorporating more cultural elements, localized resources, simplification of app). ConclusionsThe JoyPop™ app was viewed as positive and relevant, based on feedback from adults within SN. Adaptations were identified by adults to better fit SN youth needs, and research with SN youth is pending before implementation of adaptations. Research with other communities is encouraged to expand the reach of technology interventions, to holistically support Indigenous youth mental health in a culturally relevant way.