Establishing best practices in cancer online support groups: protocol for a realist review.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Considerable observational evidence suggests that cancer online support groups reduce feelings of isolation, depression and anxiety, enhance coping and self-management, and lead to better informed patients. Other studies indicate that cancer online support groups can increase distress. Yet no studies theorise the complex, context-dependent mechanisms by which cancer online support groups generate their-sometimes contrasting-outcomes.

Methods and analysis

Guided by an integrated knowledge translation approach and the strategy for patient-oriented research, we will conduct a realist review of cancer online support groups in partnership with stakeholders. We will follow Pawson's five steps and existing quality standards to develop a program theory that explains how

SUBMITTER: Bender JL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8572404 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature