Development and description of a logic model for a guided, low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy intervention for parents of persons treated for cancer during childhood: the EJDeR intervention
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background There is a lack of psychological interventions for parents of persons treated for cancer during childhood who report a need for support. We therefore developed a psychological intervention, including a programme theory and logic model as recommended by the UK Medical Research Council. The logic model offers structured ways to articulate how interventions are intended to work and interact within their context. The processes by which programme theories and logic models are developed and refined are rarely described in detail. Objective This paper describes the development of the programme theory and logic model of a workbook and audio-administered, telephone-guided, low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy intervention (EJDeR) for parents of persons treated for cancer during childhood. Methods We iteratively developed the programme theory and logic model for EJDeR in line with published guidance, drawing on prior research findings and existing theory. A multistage process involving multidisciplinary researchers and a Parent Advisory Board was used to draft and refine the logic model. Results The final version of the logic model outlines intervention resources, intervention delivery, outputs, mechanisms of impact, outcomes and contextual factors. Conclusions Using the EJDeR intervention as an example, we have illustrated an iterative, theory and research-informed approach to developing a programme theory and logic model in collaboration with key interest holders, including public contributors. Articulating and refining the programme theory enhanced our understanding of how the intervention is intended to work and provides a transferable example for developing logic models in complex healthcare intervention research. Trial registration number The ENGAGE feasibility trial: ISRCTN57233429.
Source: BMJ Open
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,839
Awards: Testing and evaluation of an internet-administered, guided, cognitive-behavioural therapy based, self-help intervention, ENGAGE for parents of children treated for cancer, G1949448941, Webbaserad psykologisk självhjälp för föräldrar vars barn behandlats mot cancer, G4039607483, G468580523, G4803525814, G6216122985, Test and evaluation of a co-created, guided, CBT-SH, e-MH intervention for parents of children treated for cancer: pilot RCT and superiority RCT with embedded mixed methods process evaluation
OpenAlex ID: W7221699145