Table 2 Treatment fidelity
Domain of fidelity | How it was met |
|---|---|
1. Study design | A priori study protocol; fixed number/length of MBSR sessions; recording of any protocol deviations; scripted manual for course; external monitoring by research team and MBSR instructor not part of the research project; monitoring homework completion |
2. Provider training | Qualified and experienced mindfulness teachers trained together using standardised MBSR treatment manuals; same instructors throughout; regular external provider debriefing and supervision; easy access to senior research staff (SM); participant exit interviews enquiring about intervention content |
3. Improving delivery of MBSR | Qualitative assessment of provider ‘warmth/credibility’ from participants, complaint monitoring; treatment workbook provided to all participants; |
4. Improving receipt of MBSR | Providers asked for weekly participant feedback, both verbal, and in writing (embedded questionnaire – not part of study data); completion of regular activity logs; participant and provider feedback on MBSR exercises during classes; telephone follow-up with drop-outs |
5. Improving MBSR skill enactment | Semi-structured participant interviews on completion; regular home practice and materials provided along with diary for adherence; in class discussion/post-interview discussion on ongoing use/application of MBSR skills in daily life |