Developing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chatbot for Adolescents and Young Adults With Eating Disorders

BEHAVIORAL

"Exp-ED" Digital Exposure-Therapy Chatbot app

Exp-ED is a text-based digital health application designed for smartphones and personal computers. It provides exposure-based content to adolescents and young adults with eating disorders. The chatbot guides users through exposure exercises (structured steps to reduce anxiety over time), records subjective distress ratings (self-reported anxiety scores), and offers evidence-based coping prompts. These sessions are intended to supplement clinical care during a six-week partial hospitalization program.

Number of times participants use web-app.

Time frame: End of Week 2, End of Week 4, End-of-Treatment (Week 6)

The investigators will measure the number of times participants use the web-app

Number of minutes participants engage with the web-app.

Time frame: End of Week 2, End of Week 4, End-of-Treatment (Week 6)

The investigators will measure the number of minutes participants engage with the web-app

Percent of eligible Adolescents and Young Adults Consented

Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 1 year

The investigators will measure the percent of eligible adolescents and young adults who consent to the study.

System Usability Scale Survey (SUS)

Time frame: End of Week 2, End of Week 4, End-of-Treatment (Week 6)

The System Usability Scale Survey (SUS) is a 10-item self-report questionnaire that examines the participant's attitude towards the web-app. Scores range from 10-50, with higher scores indicating a better overall experience with the app.

Weight Gain Anxiety Questionnaire

Time frame: Baseline, End of Week 2, End of Week 4, End-of-Treatment (Week 6)

The Weight Gain Anxiety Questionnaire is a 12-item self-report questionnaire that targets anxiety about weight gain. The scores are measured on a 0-100 scale, with the higher the score indicating more distress about weight gain, with the exception for question 12 which is reverse scored.

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.