The study team aims to adapt a psychosocial intervention to reduce psychological distress among the caregiving parents of adolescents and young adults (aged 15-39) who have cancer. First, the study team will adapt an evidence-supported, group-based program for improving psychological resiliency (Stress Management and Resiliency Training - Relaxation Response Resiliency Program; SMART-3RP(E. R. Park et al., 2021)), and iteratively incorporate feedback from parents of AYA with cancer using a mixed-methods approach. Next, the study team will pilot the refined intervention to assess for preliminary indicators of feasibility, acceptability, and potential for efficacy in reducing parental distress.
Self-identifying parent/guardian who provides a primary informal caregiving role in their child's cancer
Recipient of caregiving is aged between 15 and 39 years and is receiving treatment for cancer
Participant must score equal to or greater than 2 (out of a possible 10) on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer
English-speaking
Having a co-parent or other household member participating in the same study
Active symptoms of psychosis or suicidal ideation that would preclude safe participation
Zeba Ahmad, Ph.D.
Lead sponsor
Massachusetts General Hospital
Sponsor institution
American Cancer Society, Inc.
Collaborator