Design and Evaluation of a Culturally Adapted Family-Based Intervention Package to Enhance Psychological Resilience in Families of Cancer Patients

Abstract

Articles to be accepted and published in this journal must have a title, abstract in Persian (for Persian articles) and English, key words, This study aimed to design and evaluate the effectiveness of a culturally adapted family-based intervention package to enhance psychological resilience in families of cancer patients. Considering the intense psychological burden of cancer on families, there is a crucial need for culturally appropriate support interventions. This semi-experimental study employed a pre-test/post-test design with a control group. Participants were selected through purposive sampling among families of cancer patients in Tehran hospitals (n = 60). The intervention package, developed over 8 group sessions, was based on principles of positive psychology, resilience training, and Iranian-Islamic cultural foundations. Data collection instruments included the Family Hardiness Index (FHI) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), administered at both pre- and post-intervention stages. Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) was used for statistical analysis. Results showed a significant increase in resilience scores and a notable decrease in stress levels in the intervention group (P<0.01). These findings confirm the effectiveness of the designed package in enhancing the psychological capacities of families of cancer patients. Designing culturally tailored interventions with family involvement and local cultural considerations is a promising step toward improving mental health and quality of life in such families.