Meaning and Purpose (MaP) therapy in advanced cancer patients: a randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Purpose: We aimed to examine the efficacy of Meaning and Purpose (MaP) Therapy in promoting posttraumatic growth and meaningful life attitudes (choices and goal seeking) in people living with advanced cancer.

Methods: Patients with a prognosis ≥ 1 year were stratified across two sites and randomised to receive MaP therapy and regular oncology/palliative care (Intervention) or usual care (Control). They completed measures at baseline (t0), post-intervention (12 weeks, t1) and 12 weeks later (t2). Our primary outcome was posttraumatic growth (PTGI); secondary outcome measures included life attitudes (LAPR), spiritual wellbeing (FACIT-Sp), anxiety, demoralization and depression.

Trial registration number: ACTRN12618001751268, 7 January 2019.

Results: We consented 107 from 404 eligible patients (26.5%) and randomised 55 to MaP Invention (35 completing t1, 25 t2) and 52 to Control (32 completing t1, 25 t2). Fidelity of the intervention was sustained. PTGI mean scores were significantly higher post-intervention on analysis by covariance (Cohen's d = 0.7 at t1 & d = 0.5 at t2). Secondary measures were significant, including LAPR (d = 0.4) and FACIT-Sp (meaning subscale d = 0.4; total d = 0.4). Participants completing six sessions achieved more noteworthy effect sizes.

Conclusion: This brief, structured individual intervention shows promise for sustaining sense of coherence, meaning and choices in life despite living with advanced cancer.

Keywords: Existential; Meaning-centered psychotherapy; Oncology; Posttraumatic growth; Psycho-oncology; Psychotherapy; Randomised controlled trial; Spiritual wellbeing.