This study evaluated the effectiveness of training peer supporters in "Walk with Me," a peer support program for youths with or at risk of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in Singapore. Using a pre-post design with 76 peer supporters aged 19-35, the study examined program outcomes and mechanisms of change. Results demonstrated significant improvements across all six outcomes for peer supporters: empathetic support awareness, self-efficacy, NSSI knowledge, attitudes toward NSSI, advocacy abilities, and empowerment to effect change. Key mechanisms were supported, showing that awareness improvements predicted self-efficacy gains and knowledge increases predicted more positive attitudes. Participants rated the program highly helpful with the two-day training component most valued. Findings illustrate how social workers can design peer support programs that create pipelines of trained community members equipped to challenge stigma and promote social inclusion.
Lu et al. (Tue,) studied this question.