Abstract
Objective: To evaluate a psychoeducational intervention program for parents of pediatric cancer patients, using cognitive and behavioral techniques.
Methods: Parents were randomly assigned to an intervention (n = 39) and a control condition (n = 42). Baseline assessment took place at diagnosis. Short-term effects were measured immediately after the intervention, long-term effects six months later. Control parents received standard care. Intervention parents received, in addition, a manual-guided program during the first six months following the diagnosis.
Results: With time all parents became significantly less psychologically distressed. However, no between-group differences were noted in psychological functioning, satisfaction with support, and intensity of emotions immediately postintervention and six months later.
Conclusions: Although the clinical evaluation of the intervention was positive, it appeared that a structured intervention program as described in this study was not any more effective than standard care.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 559-565 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders |
Volume | 28 |
Issue number | 6 |
Publication status | Published - Dec-1998 |
Keywords
- AUTISTIC-CHILDREN
- DEFICITS
- EMOTION
- APPRAISAL
- DELAY
- MIND