NCT07579442 · University of California, San Francisco
Incorporating Narrative Into the Treatment of Youth With Anorexia Nervosa (Virtual)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether a narrative medicine (NM) curriculum can enhance self-expression, reflection, and resilience in adolescents and young adults with anorexia nervosa.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate whether a narrative medicine (NM) curriculum can enhance self-expression, reflection, and resilience in adolescents and young adults with anorexia nervosa. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does participation in an NM curriculum improve self-expression and reflection in individuals with anorexia nervosa? * Does engaging in creative writing and group discussion promote resilience and emotional processing in this population? Participants will be 16-25 years old, medically stable for outpatient eating disorder therapy, and actively engaged in treatment. Those with active suicidal ideation, recent non-suicidal self-injury, or a co-occurring personality disorder will not be eligible. Participants will: * Attend six weekly workshops focused on themes such as self-definition, kindness, resilience, and possibility * Engage in close reading of visual or written texts * Complete creative writing exercises in response to prompts * Participate in group discussions and sharing An optional capstone reading event will provide a supportive space for participants to share their work with peers, loved ones, and providers, fostering connection and community. This study aims to explore the role of narrative medicine in eating disorder treatment and assess its potential benefits for psychological well-being and self-expression.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Narrative Medicine (NM) Workshop Series
The Narrative Medicine (NM) Workshop Series is a structured six-week behavioral intervention designed to enhance self-expression, reflection, and resilience in adolescents and young adults recovering from eating disorders. This intervention differs from traditional psychotherapeutic or psychoeducational approaches by integrating literary analysis, creative writing, and guided discussion as therapeutic tools. Each one-hour weekly workshop includes: * Close reading of visual or written texts related to themes such as self-definition, resilience, kindness, and possibility * Creative writing exercises in response to structured prompts that encourage self-reflection and personal storytelling * Facilitated group discussions to foster connection, self-expression, and emotional processing in a supportive environment
Primary outcome measures
Number of participants in each session
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention (Week 6)
Feasibility will be measured by participant retention in intervention.
Satisfaction with intervention components using 5-point Likert scales and semi-structured individual interviews
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention (Week 6)
Acceptability will be measured by questionnaire including 5-point Likert scales and semi-structured individual interviews assessing content relevance, writing prompts, group discussions, and facilitation. Scale title: Intervention Satisfaction Questionnaire (ISQ) Minimum value: 1 (Strongly Disagree) Maximum value: 5 (Strongly Agree) Interpretation: Higher scores indicate greater satisfaction with the intervention (better outcome).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 16-25 years old
- have a DSM-5 diagnosis of AN (confirmed by the UCSF Eating Disorders Program clinical team),
- currently engaged in outpatient eating disorder treatment, ensuring medical stability and capacity for a group-based intervention
- English fluency to engage in reflective writing and discussions
- Cognitive ability to meaningfully participate in narrative-based exercises
Exclusion criteria
- Currently medically unstable or require inpatient hospitalization
- History of psychosis, schizophrenia spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, or personality disorder
- Severe neurocognitive impairment that would prevent engagement with the intervention
- Active suicidal ideation or non-suicidal self-injury within the past two months
- Insufficient English proficiency to participate in group discussions and writing exercises
Where
- San Francisco, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations