This study examines the role of digital health interventions in mitigating health behavior disparities associated with urbanization, focusing on socioeconomic and racial/ethnic differences. Using a mixed-methods design, we analyzed survey data (N=1,200) from three U.S. cities with varying urbanization levels and conducted 35 semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers, policymakers, and community stakeholders. Quantitative results revealed... more

This study investigates the effectiveness of culturally-adapted telebehavioral interventions in addressing mental health disparities in rural healthcare deserts. Using a mixed-methods design, we analyzed survey data from 850 participants across three rural U.S. states and conducted 42 in-depth interviews with patients, providers, and community stakeholders. Quantitative results revealed that broadband access (β=0.34, p<0.001) and cultural... more

This study explores the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes among urban adolescents, while evaluating the efficacy of a school-based digital behavioral intervention ("Mindful Media") designed to promote healthy social media habits and emotional regulation. Using a mixed-methods approach, we analyzed survey data from 1,020 adolescents (ages 12–17) across five urban school... more

This paper explores the integration of behavioral science, digital health technologies, and social determinants of health (SDOH) in advancing applied behavioral health and psychology. Drawing on theoretical frameworks like social cognitive theory and ecological models, it examines how digital interventions (e.g., telehealth, mobile apps) can address health disparities in mental health, substance use, and chronic... more

This study explores how digital behavioral interventions (DBIs), grounded in Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and Ecological Models (EM), can reduce health disparities in underserved populations (rural, low-socioeconomic status, racial/ethnic minorities). A mixed-methods design was used: 520 adults with type 2 diabetes (rural Kentucky: n=310; low-income urban Los Angeles: n=210) participated in a 6-month trial of... more