Work

Establishing Treatment Fidelity in a Web-Based Behavioral Intervention Study

Year: 2011

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: : Treatment fidelity pertains to the methodological strategies used to monitor and enhance the reliability and validity of behavioral interventions. Approaches to establishing treatment fidelity in Web-based interventions differ from those used in interventions that are delivered in person. OBJECTIVE: : The aim of this study was to describe a methodology for ensuring treatment fidelity in a Web-based cognitive behavioral stress management intervention. METHODS: : The intervention Coping With Cancer Workbook, adapted for Web-based delivery from an in-person intervention, was tested in a randomized controlled trial with 123 breast cancer survivors. Strategies for ensuring treatment fidelity were implemented and assessed. RESULTS: : The National Institutes of Health Behavior Change Consortium Treatment Fidelity Guidelines were relevant to establishing treatment fidelity for the Web-based intervention. DISCUSSION: : Web-based delivery of behavioral interventions is both a strength and a threat to treatment fidelity. Investigators must be cognizant of the elements of treatment fidelity and implement strategies to monitor and improve the reliability and validity of Web-based interventions.

Source: Nursing Research

DOI: 10.1097/nnr.0b013e31823386aa

Authors: Linda H. Eaton, Ardith Z. Doorenbos, KrisAnn L. Schmitz, Kelly M. Carpenter, Bonnie A. McGregor

Institutions: University of Washington, Fred Hutch Cancer Center, National Institute of Nursing Research, Talaria (United States)

Language: English

Topic: Digital Mental Health Interventions

Subfield: Applied Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Nursing Research