2 - (SYM 40) Pilot Trial on the Contribution of Peer Leaders and Self-compassion to Group Exposure Workshops for Socially Anxious Undergraduates

Abstract Body
Background. Social anxiety disorder (SAD) reflects one of the most prevalent mental health challenges facing college students in the ongoing student mental health crisis. SAD poses significant threats to students' sense of belonging, with potential negative consequences for students’ academic performance, substance use, sexual health, and well-being. Barriers to treatment for SAD are exacerbated by a dearth of evidence-based options available on college campuses, such as exposure therapy. However, facilitating exposure therapy among college populations presents challenges in reaching students and retaining participation across treatment sessions, given low motivation for therapy, limited time, and disconnection from campus initiatives. The current study tackles these challenges by co-designing an exposure-based workshop intervention with socially anxious college students that is responsive to their needs, uses peer facilitators, and integrates self-compassion exercises, which may reduce barriers to uptake, increase relevance to students, and foster a greater sense of belonging.

Methods and Analytic Plan. Participants are socially anxious undergraduate students (current n=45; target n=75 by Fall 2025) recruited to participate in a three-part exposure-based group workshop intervention. To understand the individual and synergistic additive benefits of peer facilitation and self-compassion on an exposure-based group workshop for socially anxious college students, this study uses a two-variable full factorial design within a Multiphase Optimization Strategy trial framework. Primary study aims include investigating the feasibility and acceptability of conducting the intervention and the full factorial trial in this context, as well as evaluating efficacy potential. Additionally, relationships between improvement in social anxiety and a sense of belonging will be examined. Social anxiety outcomes are assessed at baseline, post-workshop, and at 1-month follow up. Descriptive statistics and reliable change indices will be evaluated within and between each workshop condition.

Conclusion. This study reflects a novel approach to reducing barriers to care and treating SAD among college populations. Findings will elucidate ways to promote access to treatment and adherence in contexts in which high barriers to treatment exist.