Using Mixed Methods Research to Optimize Healthy Lifestyle Intervention Adaptation for Web-based Delivery: A...

Area of Science:

• Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Health Services Research
• Mixed Methods Research

Background:

• Intervention adaptation is vital for translating evidence-based research into practice.
• Web-based lifestyle interventions require adaptation for specific populations, such as cancer survivors.
• Optimizing adaptation increases intervention acceptability and real-world application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a pragmatic approach for optimizing intervention adaptation using mixed methods research.
• To present a framework to guide social and behavioral scientists in applying mixed methods to intervention adaptation.
• To demonstrate the integration of mixed methods throughout the intervention adaptation process.

Main Methods:

• Application of mixed methods research to intervention adaptation.
• Development of a matrix outlining adaptation phases, elements, and methods.
• Utilizing a mixed methods approach across formative assessment, beta-testing, and process evaluation.

Main Results:

• A pragmatic, mixed methods approach effectively optimizes intervention adaptation.
• The proposed framework aids in systematically applying mixed methods to adaptation.
• Integration of mixed methods across all adaptation stages enhances the process.

Conclusions:

• Mixed methods research provides a robust framework for intervention adaptation.
• The described approach facilitates the optimization of web-based lifestyle programs for cancer survivors.
• This work contributes to the effective application of mixed methods in health behavior research and practice translation.