Truce: Feasibility and acceptability of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based intervention for adolescents and young adults impacted by parental cancer

Abstract

For adolescents and young adults (AYAs, 12–24 years), a parental cancer diagnosis can disrupt critical developmental processes and family relationships, negatively impacting wellbeing. However, few supportive interventions are available to affected offspring. This paper reports the feasibility and acceptability of Truce, an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based weekly program for AYAs impacted by parental cancer. A multi-method, multi-informant approach was used, with data drawn from facilitator, AYA and parent/caregiver feedback collected after each session and at the end of the program. Truce was delivered with high fidelity to the program manual and high participant interest. AYAs and parents/caregivers reported perceived benefits of participation around therapeutic teachings, peer connection, and parental participation. While subsequent work will determine whether Truce has significant psychosocial benefits for participants, findings are a promising indicator of the potential for ACT-based group interventions to support AYAs affected by parental cancer.