Informed Consent to Participate in Online Survey
You are being asked to participate in an online survey for a research project being carried out by Nick Shoda, a clinical psychology doctoral student at National Louis University. The study is called “Trauma in Training: The Psychological Consequences of Abusive Practices in Acting Programs” and is occurring from 5/1/25 to 5/5/26. The purpose of this study is to investigate possible links between poor mental health in actors and abusive behavior they may have witnessed or experienced in educative settings. It is also designed to assess these links in people who are not actors. This study will help researchers develop a better understanding of the experiences actors face in their professional careers and the factors that impact their psychological well-being. It will also help clarify the extent to which the general population witnesses or experiences abusive behavior in educational settings. Before you agree to participate, it is important that you understand the procedures it involves and your rights as a participant.
Description of Procedures
If you decide to participate, you will be asked to fill out a survey that will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. Questions will involve providing basic demographic information (e.g., age, gender identity, race, etc.) as well as indicating whether you have witnessed and/or experienced acts of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from a teacher. You will also have the option to fill in additional details about your experiences if you so choose but are not obligated to provide them. You will also be asked questions related to depressive, anxious, or trauma-related symptoms you experience.
What are the risks of participating?
Participants who have experienced physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse may experience psychological discomfort and/or distress in the process of answering questions related to past experiences. However, participation is voluntary and can be discontinued at any time without penalty.
PLEASE NOTE: Participation is voluntary and can be discontinued at any time and for any reason without consequences. Declining to participate will have no consequences of any kind.
If you experience any form of psychological distress, the following resources are available for confidential support:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 272-3900
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Available by texting “Q” to 988 or by calling 988 and pressing “3”)
- SAMHSA's National Helpline
- Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Text your 5-digit ZIP Code to 435748 (HELP4U)