CONSENT TO ACT AS A PARTICIPANT IN A RESEARCH STUDY
TITLE: Perceived Stigma Across ADHD, MDD, GAD, and PTSD: The Influence of Social Media, Demographics, and Personal Comfort Levels

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Tina Krolikowski, M.S.
Carlow University
Phone number: 724-996-6360 email: tskrolikowski@carlow.edu
CO-INVESTIGATORS (if any): Kaitlynne Funari (Seminsky), Kamilah Troup, Madeline Martin, Alicia Lepore, Aaron Erdolino
SUPERVISOR/ADVISOR: Tina Krolikowski, M.S. email: tskrolikowski@carlow.edu

Why is this research being done?
You are being asked to participate in a study to consider your opinions and experiences with individuals diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The results of this study may provide additional information about what various factors are associated with opinions on different mental health disorders.

Who is being asked to take part in this research study?
Anyone aged 18 or older and is able to consent on their own behalf is able to participate in the current study.

What procedures will be performed for research purposes?
If you decide to take part in this research study, you will participate in a single 20-minute online survey. Each participant will provide demographic information; however, no identifying information will be collected. Participants will read vignettes describing individuals experiencing different mental health difficulties. Following these vignettes, participants will complete questionnaires related to these different classifications of mental health symptoms and additional relevant follow-up questions.

What are the possible risks, side effects, and discomforts of this research study?
There are minimal risks associated with your participation in this study, However, a possible risk of partaking in this study may be emotional stress induced by completing this survey. If you have any negative psychological experiences as a result of this survey and you are a Carlow University student, please seek assistance from counseling services in Frances Ward Hall (412-578-6474). For urgent mental health concerns or crises, please contact Resolve Crisis Network at 888-796-8226 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.

What are possible benefits from taking part in this study?
You will likely receive no direct benefit from taking part in this research study.

Who will know about my participation in this research study?
Completed survey responses will be kept confidential; all data files will be stored electronically on a password-protected computer that is only accessible to the research team members. Digital data will be destroyed based on organizational policy. No names or identifying information will be collected or linked to your responses.

Is my participation in this research study voluntary?
Your participation in this research study is completely voluntary. Whether or not you provide your consent for participation in this research study will have no effect on your current or future relationship with Carlow University.

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This activity has been approved by the Carlow University Institutional Review Board. This Committee administers both the General Assurance of Compliance with the United States Department of Health and Human Services Policy for the protection of Human Subjects and the University policy covering the protection of human subjects. The Committee may be contacted through the Chairperson by emailing:

Joseph Roberts: jmroberts@carlow.edu

By clicking the "Next" button below, you agree to the informed consent as discussed above.

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