Speaking Thier Language: A Randomized Pilot Study of Synchronous Online Chat Groups for Young Adults with Cancer

Background: In Canada, over 7,000 adolescents and young adults or “AYA” (ages 18 to 39 years) are diagnosed with cancer annually. Few evidence-based psychosocial interventions exist for this population. Methods: We conducted a randomized pilot study to compare a new AYA-specific psychotherapy model to a standard psycho-educational model, using CancerChatCanada (CCC) synchronous online chat groups. Results: 34 AYAs in Alberta participated in the study and all feasibility targets were met. Participants rated the new AYA model more suitable and it appeared to improve important group processes and psychosocial outcomes. A power calculation providing sample size estimation for an RCT indicated that more than 90 participants would be needed to demonstrate differential efficacy between groups. Discussion: This randomized study design is feasible with some important modifications. Conclusion: Online synchronous chat groups can be used to provide psychosocial care for AYAs. Future RCTs could provide evidence of efficacy for age-specific psychotherapy models.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Science (MSc)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Community Health Sciences

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Graduate Studies

Year dc:date.issued

2015

Author dc:creator

• Lang, Michael

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Giese-Davis, Janine
• Dort, Joseph

• Mental Health
• Oncology
• Psychology--Clinical

Statement dc:rights

• University of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.

Language dc:language.iso

eng

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.11575/PRISM/27850

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ucalgary.scholaris.ca:11023/2380