Dignity therapy interventions for young people in palliative care: a rapid structured evidence review

Background: Dignity therapy is becoming established in adult settings, with research supporting its effectiveness.

Aims: This article aims to summarise and synthesise the research that has explored dignity therapy and related meaning-making interventions in palliative care with young people.

Methods: A rapid structured review was undertaken. Quality appraisal was based on the randomised control trial or cohort study Critical Appraisals Skills Programme (CASP) tool.

Results: Four studies met the inclusion criteria; one focused on young people (7–17 years), the other three included young people but mean ages were 50–70 years. Dignity therapy was found to improve aspects of wellbeing for the patient and was perceived as helpful for the family.

Conclusions: Dignity therapy is well received, with improvements in measures of wellbeing. However, few studies have included young people (24 years and below). This highlights a clear gap in the literature, suggesting the need to develop and evaluate a dignity therapy or related meaning-making intervention to support young people.