Publication details
Effectiveness, Adherence, and User Experience in a Mobile Positive Psychology Programme for Cancer Patients: Findings from the MindCare App
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| Year of publication | 2026 |
| Type | Appeared in Conference without Proceedings |
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| Description | eHealth interventions show promise in supporting mental well-being in oncology populations, particularly those involving multicomponent positive psychology and mindfulness-based programmes. However, real-world adherence and user experience remain key determinants of effectiveness. The MindCare mobile application was developed to provide oncology patients with accessible psychological support through three independent 8-week programmes, one of which was Positive Psychology Interventions. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the MindCare Positive Psychology programme and examined user engagement patterns, adherence behaviour, drop-out, and participants’ feedback regarding the most valued content. A total of 138 oncology patients (93% female; age range 18–80, M = 51.5) were randomly assigned to the MindCare Positive Psychology programme. Descriptive statistics, frequency analyses, paired t-tests, and data mining methods were used to assess programme interaction, adherence, effectiveness, and subjective evaluation. Overall, 25.5% of participants completed the full 8-week programme, 41% completed part of it, and 33% dropped out before 10% completion. The most adherent subgroup consisted of women with breast cancer aged 45–50 years. Usage patterns showed highest engagement with the app mid-week, with peak activity on Wednesdays and lowest activity on Sundays. Participants most often used the app in the early morning (6:00–8:00 a.m.). Patients rated “Three Good Things,” “Positive emotions and gratitude,” “Hope and optimism,” and “Meaning and purpose” as the most beneficial topics. Programme Library data indicated that “Three Good Things” was the most frequently revisited activity both during and after the 8-week programme. Mobile psychological interventions can effectively support oncology patients’ well-being. Understanding real-world engagement and preferred content can guide future digital intervention design to maximise adherence and therapeutic benefit. This work was supported by the Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic, No. NU22-09-00056. |
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