Group sleep intervention with adolescents attending a pupil referral unit using youth participation methodology: A report of the development of an intervention in practice

Abstract

AbstractThis report of the development of an intervention in practice outlines the design, delivery, and evaluation of a tailored, school‐based, group adolescent sleep intervention utilising youth participation methodology and an intervention mapping protocol as a framework. The intervention also included supplementary video support. The intervention was delivered to 5‐year 11 students attending a pupil referral unit. This alternative education provision is organised to provide education for young people who cannot participate in school and may not otherwise receive suitable education in Britain. Through co‐formulation and cooperative design, the voice of the young people was sought throughout the design, implementation, and evaluation process. The behavioural objectives of the intervention were to increase stress management techniques and reduce technology usage. These were chosen to align with the overall outcomes: improving sleep behaviours and reducing negative sleep hygiene practices. Improvements in sleep behaviour and decreases in negative sleep hygiene practices were achieved post‐intervention and at 4‐month follow‐up. Strengths of the intervention, future intervention optimisation, and implications for practice are considered.