Free Time For Wellness Pilot Effectiveness Trial

The intervention includes a task-based interaction (volunteer activities) where cognitive demand is low and interactional roles are clear. The focus is on the task, rather than developing relationships, reducing the pressure of interaction. As the volunteer activities continue, they also offer the opportunity for group members to enhance empathy, another salient component of cross-group relational development. Mediated interaction supports new relational development through a disinhibiting effect, lowering inhibitions and increasing comfort and disclosure