Effects of the SES NXT intervention on mental health and well-being for children of divorce

Parental divorce is common and linked to adverse mental health outcomes and reduced well-being in children and adolescents, yet digital interventions for this group remain scarce. This study reports on a randomized controlled trial of a digital intervention (SES NXT) for children and adolescents aged 3-17 experiencing parental divorce. Participants (n = 866) were randomized to either SES NXT (n = 449) or a waitlist control group (n = 417). At 12-week follow-up from baseline, the intervention group showed medium to large improvements across all primary and secondary mental health and well-being outcomes versus the waitlist control group, as measured by the Strength and Difficulty Questionnaire (SDQ). Primary outcomes included emotional symptoms, total difficulties, and impairment (Cohen's (d) = 0.66-0.71, all p's < 0.001). Secondary outcomes included conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer problems, and prosocial behavior (Cohen's (d) = 0.47-0.56, all p's < 0.001). Findings are discussed through the Divorce-Stress-Adjustment framework and within the Northern European (Danish) cultural context.