An intervention based on acceptance and commitment therapy for people experiencing work- or career-related difficulties: A randomized controlled trial.
Maryse Damecour, Marina M Doucerain, Lise Lachance et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial evaluated a seven-session online group intervention based on acceptance and commitment therapy among people experiencing work- or career-related difficulties, including job loss and burnout. Participants were assigned to the intervention (n = 82) or a waitlist (n = 82), with outcomes assessed at baseline, after treatment, and follow-up. Intention-to-treat analyses found improvements in psychological flexibility (d = .64), well-being (d = .32), and meaning in life (d = .42), alongside reductions in inflexibility and distress. Effects were maintained at follow-up 17 weeks later; career engagement did not significantly change.
Key findings
- The intervention increased psychological flexibility (d = .64), well-being (d = .32), and meaning in life (d = .42).
- Psychological inflexibility decreased (d = -.51) and distress decreased (d = -.36) after the intervention.
- Effects were maintained at follow-up 17 weeks later, with moderation by initial distress and precarity for some outcomes.
- Career engagement did not significantly change; changes in psychological flexibility or inflexibility statistically accounted for intervention effects.
Why it matters
Work- and career-related difficulties can coincide with psychological distress and reduced well-being. This trial suggests that a structured, remotely delivered group intervention may improve several psychological outcomes in this population, with benefits persisting through follow-up. The absence of a significant effect on career engagement indicates that psychological gains did not extend to every measured outcome.
What to keep in mind
The comparison was with a waitlist, and outcomes were measured by questionnaires. Follow-up was limited to 17 weeks after the intervention.