NCT06880809 · Children's Hospital Los Angeles
Bridge the Gap (BTG) - Black Youth Group
(Bridge the Gap)
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to develop and preliminarily test a culturally adapted suicide intervention specifically for black youth.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to develop and preliminarily test a culturally adapted suicide intervention specifically for black youth. The main question it aims to answer: -To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the group, as well as the preliminary efficacy of the group for decreasing suicidal thoughts and behaviors and increasing protective factors such as hope, positive ethnic identity, and family and peer support. Participants will be asked to attend 10-week group intervention and complete pre-treatment and post-treatment assessment measures.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Bridge the Gap (BTG) - Black Youth Group
Participants will complete a group intervention, rooted in the Collaborative Assessment \& Management of Suicidality (CAMS) evidence-based model, driven by their own unique identification of suicide drivers.
Primary outcome measures
The Collaborative Assessment & Management of Suicidality - Suicide Status Form (SSF)
Time frame: From pre-treatment until 3 months post-treatment, approximately 23 weeks.
An assessment of suicide risk that consists of six core assessment constructs: psychological pain, stress, agitation, hopelessness, self-hate, and overall risk of suicide; as well as reasons for living and reasons for dying constructs, and wish to live and wish to die constructs.
Ethnic Identity Scale (EIS)
Time frame: From baseline until 3 months post-treatment, approximately 22 weeks.
A 17-item scale that assesses the three components of ethnic identity and distinguishes between exploration, resolution, and affirmation. Scores range from 17-68, with higher scores indicating higher levels of affirmation, exploration, and resolution.
Living Ladder Scale
Time frame: From baseline until 3 months post-treatment, approximately 22 weeks.
A one-item measure that is prospectively associated with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts by measuring readiness to continue living among individuals thinking of suicide. Scores range from 0-8, with 8 indicating an individual is committed to making changes to make their lives worth living.
Brief Suicide Cognitions Scale (B-SCS)
Time frame: From baseline until 3 months post-treatment, approximately 22 weeks.
A 6-item self-report scale that measures the suicidal belief system, including dimensions of unlovability, unbearability, and unsolvability. Scores range from 6-30, with lower scores indicating fewer suicide cognitions.
Therapeutic Relationship Working Alliance Inventory, Short Revised (WAI-SR)
Time frame: From baseline until 3 months post-treatment, approximately 22 weeks.
A 12-item scale that reflects Bordin's three-dimensional conceptualization of therapeutic alliance: task, goal, and bond. Scores range from 12-60, with higher scores indicating higher therapeutic alliance.
Optimism and Hope Scale (OHS)
Time frame: From baseline until 3 months post-treatment, approximately 22 weeks.
A 14-item scale that measures an individual's level of both optimism, as characterized by a positive outlook on the future, and hope, as characterized by the belief in one's ability to achieve goals and navigate challenges. Scores range from 14-56, with lower scores indicating more hope and optimism.
Parent Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale (RHDS)
Time frame: From baseline until 3 months post-treatment, approximately 22 weeks.
A 23-item scale aimed at providing a discharge readiness assessment before pediatric discharge from care in hospital settings. Scores range from 0-80, with higher scores indicating more readiness.
Group Cohesion Scale
Time frame: From baseline until the beginning of post-treatment, approximately 10 weeks.
A 12-item self-report scale that measures group cohesion, including dimensions of engagement, conflict, and avoidance. Scores across the subscales range from 0-72; higher scores indicate more of that dimension.
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
- 12-17 years old
- Identify as Black or African American or being of African descent
- Have current suicidal ideation or suicidal ideation within the last 30 days
- Have assent from the adolescent participant and consent from an individual's caregiver or guardian to participate.
Exclusion criteria
- An active psychotic disorder or current psychosis symptoms
- No history of suicide attempt(s) or suicide ideation in the past 30 days
- Cognitive deficits or a medical condition diagnosed from a medical provider that precludes full understanding of study materials as assessed through an inability to complete the pre-treatment CAMS SSF \& SSP
- Caregivers, guardians, and/or the patient refuse to participate.
Where
- Los Angeles, California
Collaborators
American Psychological Foundation
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 Apr 30, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations