A Naturalistic Evaluation of Psychosocial Interventions for Cancer Patients in a Community Setting

Abstract

We used a naturalistic methodology to examine associations between change in cancer patients’ emotional functioning and their use of interventions in a community organization. One-hundred ninety-two patients completed measures at baseline and 6 months later. During this time, they utilized the organization's various interventions as they wished. Attendance at educational events was associated with decreased well-being. Use of art therapy groups was not associated with decreases in negative emotion but was consistently associated with increases in positive emotion. Improved functioning on some measures was associated with use of psychoeducational groups, expressive/supportive groups, movement classes, healing arts, and a buddy-matching service.

KEYWORDS:

• evaluation
• psychosocial intervention
• outcome research
• cancer

Acknowledgments

This research was supported by Grant #2005059 from the Saint Lukes Foundation.