The proposed research program consists of seven interrelated studies, each addressing a different dimension of stress and mental health assessment, with the larger goal of establishing reliable, culturally valid, and clinically relevant tools for early identification and intervention.

Study 1: Concordance Study

This study will examine the concordance between newly developed psychometric scales and established gold-standard tools such as GHQ, along with psychiatric evaluation. Its purpose is to establish the reliability and validity of the scale in both general and clinical populations, thereby confirming its diagnostic robustness.

Study 2: Screening Test for Adults

This project aims to adapt and validate a comprehensive screening test for adult populations to detect early symptoms of stress, psychological distress, and subclinical psychopathology. By testing across diverse groups, this study will help establish population norms and thresholds for intervention.

Study 3: Parental Description and Its Validity

Focusing on parental descriptions of children’s behavior and symptoms, this study will evaluate the accuracy and validity of parent-reported information in mental health assessment. It addresses the critical role of caregivers as informants, especially in contexts where professional mental health access is limited.

Study 4: Mirror Image Study

This investigation will explore how stress and psychological symptoms manifest differently across populations by comparing mirror groups—such as clinical vs. non-clinical, urban vs. rural, or culturally distinct communities. The study emphasizes cultural nuances in symptom presentation and their implications for diagnosis.

Study 5: Field Trial in Different Communities

Through field testing in varied communities, including tribal and rural populations, this study will assess the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of the proposed screening tools in real- world settings. The goal is to capture cultural specificity and ensure applicability across diverse Indian populations.

Study 6: Predictors of Success

This study seeks to identify psychological, social, and cultural predictors that influence the success of early stress intervention programs. By analyzing resilience, coping strategies, and risk factors, it will help refine screening tools and guide prevention-oriented interventions.

Study 7: AI Model for Facial Expression and Predictors Study

The final project integrates artificial intelligence with clinical psychiatry, developing models that analyze facial expressions as predictors of stress and psychological distress. This innovative approach aims to complement traditional psychometrics with objective, technology-driven indicators of mental health status.

Citation for Program Proposal (suggested format)

Shrivastava, A., & Mansik Shakti Foundation. (2025). Integrated Research Program on Stress and Mental Health Screening: Validation, Field Trials, and AI Applications. Mansik Shakti Foundation, Mumbai.