Development and feasibility evaluation of MyJourney: A self-guided online intervention for people with unmet parenthood goals

Rowbottom, Bethan 2021. Development and feasibility evaluation of MyJourney: A self-guided online intervention for people with unmet parenthood goals. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Background: Parenthood is a central goal for most people. Fertility trends indicate an increase in the number of people experiencing unmet parenthood goals (UPG), defined as not having children or fewer children than desired. Facing a UPG can trigger loss and grief, potentially leading to a difficult adjustment process. Currently there is limited knowledge about what support for people with UPGs should comprise and there are no accessible evidence-based interventions to support this population. Aims: This thesis’ aim was to develop an accessible, research-informed, and evidence-based intervention to support people with UPGs, named MyJourney. Methods: Various methodologies were used. A prospective mixed methods study to investigate the acceptability of an initial prototype of the intervention; a mixed methods online survey study to gain in-depth understanding of how childless by circumstance individuals adjust to their UPG and their support needs; a phased development process of MyJourney following MRC guidance to develop complex interventions; and a randomised controlled feasibility trial to determine whether MyJourney, and the study protocol, were feasible. Main results: The main findings from the studies undertaken demonstrate there is demand for support across different pathways to a UPG (e.g., unsuccessful fertility treatment, childlessness by circumstance) and that its delivery as an online self-guided intervention is acceptable to people with UPGs. The phased development facilitated clarity regarding the active ingredients and design principles of MyJourney, to maximise its acceptability, and develop the final MyJourney prototype. Findings from the feasibility RCT indicate MyJourney is acceptable, iii feasible to implement as an online self-guided tool, and demonstrated limited efficacy. Its development process can move forward to a full scale RCT to evaluate efficacy. Conclusion: The work in this thesis contributed to the emergent research on UPGs and demonstrated it is possible to develop and deliver evidence-based support for people with UPGs.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Psychology
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	21 July 2022
Last Modified:	21 Jul 2022 08:46
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/151211

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