Using Mixed Methods Research to Optimize Healthy Lifestyle Intervention Adaptation for Web-Based Delivery: A Pragmatic Approach

Abstract

Intervention adaptation is a crucial step toward increasing intervention acceptability and translating evidence-based research into practice and broader use. This article describes a pragmatic approach to optimize intervention adaptation of AMPLIFY (AiM, Plan, and act on LIFestYles) web-based diet and exercise program for middle-aged and older cancer survivors by applying mixed methods research. A matrix with adaptation phases, elements, and methods is offered as an overarching framework to assist social and behavioral scientists as they pragmatically apply mixed methods to the process of intervention adaptation. This article contributes to mixed methods research by detailing an effective application and integration of mixed methods across the full spectrum of intervention adaptation (from formative assessment to beta-testing to process evaluation during efficacy testing).