Feasibility study of taking back control together, an intervention to support parents of children with cancer

Abstract

Introduction Parents of children with cancer can experience increased emotional distress. This study aimed to assess the feasibility (i.e., reach, treatment fidelity, and social validity) of Taking Back Control Together (TBCT).

Methods We assessed reach with the enrollment and dropout ratios. We assessed treatment fidelity using items from existing programs, controlling for the reliability of the items. For social validity, we used an adapted version of the Treatment Evaluation Inventory and compared means with theoretical cut-points.

Results 42 participants enrolled in the intervention. The enrollment and dropout ratios were 39% and 38%, respectively. Treatment fidelity was 77.3–84.3% (95%CI 75.3–86%). Acceptability (M = 90%), satisfaction (M = 87%), and relevance (M = 82%) were significantly positive.

Conclusion This study suggests that certain elements of TBCT need to be reassessed before the intervention is pilot tested. Although reach was likely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, it could be improved with some modifications to the intervention.