Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science (JCBS)
Volume 39, January 2026
Authors
Gary Byrne & Clara Sherlock
Key Findings
- DNA-V model has increased in scope among clinicians.
- The current systematic review presents a mixed picture in terms of its effectiveness.
- DNA-V may be effective in addressing child anxiety but less so with low mood.
Abstract
Previous reviews have found that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) may be an effective intervention for children and young people (CYP) presenting with mental health difficulties. However the heterogeneity in treatment protocols and interventions limits interpretations. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an approach developed specifically for CYP; the Discoverer, Noticer, Advisor and Value (DNA-V) model. Databases were searched for studies using the DNA-V model across a number of treatment settings for a range of common mental health and academic difficulties faced by CYP. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria. These were also assessed for quality and synthesized using a narrative summary. Outcomes on mental health findings were decidedly mixed. Results favoured DNA-V in addressing anxiety issues but limited evidence for its effectiveness in targeting low mood was reported. Tentative evidence suggests that the model may be of help for students facing academic related stressors. Limited evidence was found that DNA-V targeted specific psychological flexibility processes or changed psychological inflexibility. Despite the increased scope and potential use of DNA-V across many differing settings, findings from the current review are mixed in terms of the effectiveness of the approach for common mental health difficulties among CYP. Possible reasons for this, in addition to future suggestions are discussed.