Effect of Campi the Seahorse video interventions on improving knowledge about epilepsy and reducing stigmatizing beliefs in primary school pupils

Children with epilepsy continue to face stigma and peer exclusion in school settings, highlighting the need for effective age-appropriate educational interventions. This study evaluated the effects at 6-month follow-up of Episodes 3 + 4 of the Campi the Seahorse educational video series in improving epilepsy knowledge and reducing stigma among primary school pupils aged 9-12. A total of 94 pupils received the Campi 3 + 4 intervention and completed measures of epilepsy knowledge and stigma at baseline and at a 6-month follow-up. Their outcomes were compared with data from 197 pupils who had previously received the Campi 1 + 2 video (n = 111) or a Campi-based read story intervention (n = 86). In the Campi 3 + 4 group, epilepsy knowledge increased significantly from baseline to follow-up (M = 7.14, SD = 2.42 vs. M = 9.36, SD = 3.37, p < 0.001, d = 0.75), with substantial improvements in knowledge of brain function, first aid, and seizure manifestations. Epilepsy-related stigma also decreased significantly (M = 42.14, SD = 14.66 vs. M = 38.11, SD = 14.88, p = 0.011, d = 0.27), with exploratory item-level changes in work-related prejudice and perceived incapability. ANCOVA controlling for baseline scores showed no significant differences in knowledge at the 6-month follow-up across the three interventions (p = 0.243). After adjustment for baseline stigma scores, the overall difference in stigma scores among the three intervention groups was statistically significant (p = 0.040), with the Campi 3 + 4 group showing the lowest adjusted mean. However, the multiplicity-adjusted pairwise comparisons were not significant (p > 0.05). Findings of this non-randomized study suggest that Campi Episodes 3 + 4 provide a brief educational intervention associated with improvements in epilepsy knowledge and lower stigma. Their focus on first aid, common misconceptions, and social inclusion may make them a relevant option when implementation of the complete four-episode series is not feasible.