The use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in informal caregivers of people with dementia and other long-term or chronic conditions: A systematic review and conceptual integration
Golnaz L. Atefi , Marjolein E. de Vugt , Rosalia J.M. van Knippenberg , Michael E. Levin , Frans R.J. Verhey , Sara Laureen Bartels
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Informal caregivers are the primary source of support for adults with chronic conditions and disabilities. Empirical research highlights chronic stress and other risks of adverse outcomes of caregiving. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an emerging evidenced-based practice that shows promise in improving an array of outcomes, theoretically by increasing psychological flexibility as the primary process of change. Research has begun to evaluate ACT among informal caregivers of adult populations, and a systematic review is now needed to summarise this evidence base.
Electronic searches from five databases, including PubMed, PsycInfo, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library, yielded an initial 7896 hits, which after screening for inclusion criteria, resulted in 21 clinical trials. Studies were coded to synthesise the feasibility, effectiveness, and quality of evidence. Findings show that ACT was reported to be largely feasible and acceptable. However, the efficacy of ACT was mixed, with a more consistent pattern for informal caregivers of people with dementia.
Several methodological quality issues limited the findings. However, theoretical synthesis and preliminary evidence support the promising effect of ACT in subgroups of informal caregivers. Research on the process of change, as well as larger-scale, methodologically rigorous trials, are needed to consolidate these findings.
期刊介绍:
Clinical Psychology Review serves as a platform for substantial reviews addressing pertinent topics in clinical psychology. Encompassing a spectrum of issues, from psychopathology to behavior therapy, cognition to cognitive therapies, behavioral medicine to community mental health, assessment, and child development, the journal seeks cutting-edge papers that significantly contribute to advancing the science and/or practice of clinical psychology.
While maintaining a primary focus on topics directly related to clinical psychology, the journal occasionally features reviews on psychophysiology, learning therapy, experimental psychopathology, and social psychology, provided they demonstrate a clear connection to research or practice in clinical psychology. Integrative literature reviews and summaries of innovative ongoing clinical research programs find a place within its pages. However, reports on individual research studies and theoretical treatises or clinical guides lacking an empirical base are deemed inappropriate for publication.