An Application of Evidence‐Based Approaches to Engage Young People in the Design of a Global Mental Health Databank

Engaging youth in mental health research and intervention design has the potential to improve their relevance and effectiveness. Frameworks like Roger Hart's ladder of participation, Shier's pathways to participation and Lundy's voice and influence model aim to balance power between youth and adults. Hart's Ladder, specifically, is underutilized in global mental health research, presenting new opportunities to examine power dynamics across various contexts. Drawing on Hart's ladder, our study examined youth engagement in mental health research across high- and middle-income countries using Internet-based technologies, evaluating youth involvement in decision-making and presenting research stages that illustrate these engagements.