A Scoping Study of Cultural Adaptation Frameworks

Abstract

Translating evidence-based intervention in public health is important to improve health behaviors and other outcomes and reduce health disparities. Culturally adapting intervention is one approach to reaching different cultural groups. The goals of this paper were to compile definitions of program adaptations, identify processes and steps in cultural adaptations, and pose recommendations for future research related to cultural adaptations. We performed a scoping review of cultural adaptation frameworks or models for public health. Studies were coded for definitions of adaptation, cultural adaptation, other cultural concepts, process steps, community engagement, and public health topic. We found 15 frameworks that described cultural adaptation concepts and processes, and nine had varying definitions of cultural adaptations. All frameworks included tasks of information gathering about the community and developing a preliminary adapted program; over 50% had making refinements to the adapted program after some pilot testing. Only one framework mentioned the role of experts in the adaptation or enhancement process, and one mentioned dissemination. Thirteen articles (86.7%) reported the inclusion of community engagement in the adaptation process. These data present key definitions related to cultural adaptation and themes related to the process of cultural adaptation. We also report on key steps for conducting cultural adaptations. Findings can be utilized to guide future adaptations of evidence-based interventions to ensure culturally competent research and practice.