Efficacy of Op Koers Online, an online group intervention for parents of children with cancer: Results of a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Objective: Parents of children with cancer are at risk for developing psychosocial problems. The present study aims to evaluate the effect of an online group intervention (Op Koers Online, in English: On Track Online) on psychosocial wellbeing and coping skills. Methods: Parents of a child with cancer (diagnosis <5 years ago) participated in a randomized controlled trial. In six consecutive (and one booster-) protocolled sessions in an online chatroom, trained psychologists and social workers taught coping skills using cognitive behavioral and acceptance and commitment techniques. Questionnaires assessed anxiety, depression, distress, situation-specific emotional reactions and coping skills (Op Koers Questionnaire/Cognitive Coping Strategies Scale Parent Form) and evaluated the intervention. Linear mixed-model analyses were performed to detect differences between the conditions in changes over time; T0–T1 and T0–T2 (6-week and 6-month follow-up), and to detect changes in scores T2–T3 (12-month follow-up) for the intervention group only. Results: 89 parents were included in analyses (mean age 41.9 years, 86% female, 62%/38% post/during treatment of their child). Beneficial intervention effects (p < 0.05) were found at T1 for anxiety, depression, distress, loneliness and relaxation, and at T2 for anxiety, uncertainty and relaxation. In the intervention condition, scores did not change from T2 to T3, except loneliness that decreased and relaxation that improved. All effect sizes were small to medium (β = −0.21 to 0.46). Parents were generally positive about the intervention. Conclusions: Op Koers Online for parents of children with cancer has a positive effect on psychosocial wellbeing and the coping skill relaxation. Implementation is recommended to prevent psychosocial problems. Clinical Trial Registration: Dutch Trial Register https://onderzoekmetmensen.nl/en NL73763.041.20.