Parents of children with immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated food allergies (FA) at risk of anaphylaxis may experience an increased psychosocial burden. Thus, integrating psychosocial support for parents into FA management is essential. Previous psychosocial interventions have demonstrated positive effects for caregivers of children with FA. This study aimed to implement a comprehensive online pilot program for caregivers of children aged 2–8 years diagnosed with FA that carries a risk of anaphylaxis. The primary objectives related to the intervention were to assess quantitative changes in FA-specific parental self-efficacy and burden, stress, and well-being; explore qualitatively the parents’ experiences; and evaluate overall impressions.
A mixed-method, single-arm, non-randomized, pre-post measurement design was used in which an online, six-session-long pilot intervention was conducted among mothers of children with FA. Quantitative methods (N = 25) included administration of self-report questionnaires pre- and post-intervention. Semi-structured interviews on individual intervention experiences (N = 11) were qualitatively analyzed by using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).
Paired-samples t-test indicated significant improvements for FA-specific parental self-efficacy and burden, while non-significant changes were observed for stress and well-being. Increases in self-efficacy were greater among parents who had not previously experienced an anaphylactic event. IPA revealed beneficial shifts in acknowledging and sharing burdensome emotions and parental challenges, while perceived limited changes in social environment’s FA management. Professionally facilitated peer support and psychological techniques acquired during the program were identified as major drivers of observed changes.
Preliminary improvements in FA-specific parental outcomes and high perceived usefulness were observed; however, a rigorously designed definitive trial is needed to establish the program’s effectiveness.