Photo-experiencing and Reflective Listening (PEARL) to Promote Healing Engagement for Survivors of Violence

BEHAVIORAL

PEARL (Photo-experiencing and Reflective Listening)

PEARL is a two-component behavioral intervention designed to promote healing engagement among survivors of interpersonal violence. Participants receive a photography-focusing prompt and are given two weeks to create photographs that reflect their healing journey and experiences. After the two-week photography period, participants engage in a one-on-one reflective listening interview where they discuss the photographs they created and co-create a healing action plan based on these discussions. The interview provides a structured opportunity for participants to explore and articulate their healing process through photo-elicitation, allowing them to express their experiences visually and verbally. The intervention is delivered by trained research assistants with fidelity monitoring through audio recording and independent evaluation of a random sample of sessions.

Post-trauma Cognitions Inventory (PTCI)

Time frame: Baseline, immediately post-intervention (approximately 2-4 weeks after baseline), and 1-month follow-up (approximately 6-8 weeks after baseline)

The PTCI is a self-report measure used to assess posttraumatic cognitions. It is composed of three subscales: Negative Cognitions about the Self, Negative Cognitions about the World, and Self-Blame. Higher scores indicate more negative trauma-related cognitions. The minimum score one can receive is 33 and the maximum score is 231.

Trauma Coping Self-efficacy Scale

Time frame: Baseline, immediately post-intervention (approximately 2-4 weeks after baseline), and 1-month follow-up (approximately 6-8 weeks after baseline)

The Trauma Coping Self-efficacy Scale is a 7-item measure that covers trauma-related coping self-efficacy including: dealing with reminders of the event, dealing with emotions associated with the event, employing active coping strategies, and resuming normal functioning. Higher scores indicate greater confidence in ability to cope with trauma. The minimum score one can receive is 0 and the maximum score is 63.

Healing after Gender-based Violence Scale

Time frame: Baseline, immediately post-intervention (approximately 2-4 weeks after baseline), and 1-month follow-up (approximately 6-8 weeks after baseline)

This 18-item scale measures holistic healing after trauma. Items are rated on a 5-point Likert scale from 1 ('Not at all') to 5 ('To a great extent'). Respondents are asked to evaluate each statement in reference to their perceived lowest point and their current feelings. This measure captures holistic healing outcomes beyond symptom reduction. Higher scores indicate greater levels of healing.

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.