Recorded Mini Workshop #17- Superheroes, Powerups, Origin Stories, and Sidekicks: Introducing an Interactive Comic Book to Teach CBT Skills to Medically Ill Youth (2023 CONVENTION RECORDING)

Maria C. Alba, Psy.D.

Psychologist
Montefiore Medical Center
Bronx, New York

Sandra S. Pimentel, Ph.D.

Chief, Child and Adolescent Psychology
Montefiore Medical Center
Bronx, New York

Recorded on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at the 57th Annual ABCT Convention in Seattle, WA

1.5 CE Credits Awarded

$15 Student ABCT Members / $25 ABCT Members / $35 Non-Members

All prices listed in US currency

Abstract:

SuperKids: Change the World (SK) takes the concept of comic books one step further by integrating cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based strategies into an interactive, youth-friendly, activity book. SK content is based on real Bronx families, was developed collaboratively with the Montefiore Medical Center Psychiatry and Pediatrics teams and the team at PopCulture Hero Coalition, illustrated by Wellington Alves, and authored by psychologist Dr. Janina Scarlet. SK features four diverse child characters experiencing pain, fears, and sadness in relation to their illnesses. Initial research findings indicate that youth believe SK is easy to read, teaches useful skills, and in general helps kids when they are in the hospital. In this experiential mini-workshop, facilitators will demonstrate how to use a fun, superhero framework to guide youth through practicing CBT skills (e.g., problem-solving, mindful breathing, coping self-talk) using superhero language and narratives (e.g., superpowers, origin stories, powerups). Participants will engage in exercises and receive sample materials.

Outline:

• Very briefly review current literature on comic book interventions to deliver psychosocial interventions
• Orient participants to SK, including SK creation, structure, and research so far at Montefiore Medical Center
• Lead participants in an experiential SK group, modeling the introduction and practice of various CBT coping skills
• Accept questions, encourage participant case-based applications, ask for reflection on experience

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this workshop, the learner will be able to:

1. Demonstrate at least three strategies for incorporating a superhero narrative into teaching youth about CBT.

2. Teach at least two cognitive-behavioral and acceptance-based skills to youth.

3. Explain the benefits of using a superhero framework to deliver evidence-based skills that assist with coping.

4. Long Term Goal: Attendees will build clinical skills to deliver an interactive comic book intervention that teaches CBT skills to youth facing medical illness.

Recommended Readings:

1. Scarlet, J. & Alves, W. (2017). Superhero therapy: mindfulness skills to help teens & young adults deal with anxiety, depression & trauma. Oakland, CA, Instant Help Books.

2. Fradkin, C., Weschenfelder, G. V., & Yunes, M. A. (2016). Shared adversities of children and comic superheroes as resources for promoting resilience: Comic superheroes are an untapped resource for empowering vulnerable children. Child Abuse & Neglect, 51, 407–415.,

3. Branscum, P. & Sharma, M. (2009). Comic books an untapped medium for health promotion. American Journal of Health Studies, 24 (4), 430-439.

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All attendees will receive a certificate of completion when the course requirements are satisfied. Certificate of completion is included in the cost of the webinar

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For more information, contact:

Rachel Lamb, ABCT Membership and Marketing Manager
212-647-1890 ext. 209
rlamb@abct.org

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