Character Strengths-Based Intervention for Enhancing Self-esteem and Quality of Life and Alleviating Depression in Female Patients With Breast Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Tingting Yan, Ka Ming Chow, Jannan Xiao et al.
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In 30 seconds
This multisite, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial evaluated a culturally tailored character strengths-based intervention (CSI) in Chinese female patients with breast cancer. Participants were assigned to CSI or an “early memories” control program, with outcomes assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and 1 month later. Compared with the control group, CSI significantly increased self-esteem and quality of life and reduced depressive symptoms at both postintervention assessments. Interviews with participants in the CSI group also explored acceptability, perceived benefits, implementation facilitators and barriers, and recommendations.
Key findings
- Among 122 participants, 61 were assigned to CSI and 61 to the “early memories” control program.
- CSI significantly increased self-esteem and quality of life at both immediately postintervention and 1 month postintervention.
- Depressive symptoms were significantly reduced in the CSI group at both postintervention assessments.
- Interviews identified themes concerning acceptability, perceived benefits, implementation facilitators and barriers, and recommendations.
Why it matters
Self-esteem, quality of life, and depressive symptoms are relevant dimensions of wellbeing for people with breast cancer. This trial provides evidence that a culturally tailored strengths-based program may improve these outcomes over the short term, while participant interviews offer insight into how the intervention was experienced and what may support its delivery.
What to keep in mind
Follow-up was limited to 1 month after the intervention, so the abstract does not establish whether benefits persist longer term.