Introduction: The increasing need for organ transplantation has become a global challenge. A major obstacle to organ donation is the requirement for family consent, which is mandatory in more than 50 countries, including Iran. Changing family attitudes plays a crucial role in increasing organ donation rates. This study aimed to identify factors and effective touchpoints influencing family behavior in order to design social marketing interventions.
Methods: This scoping review investigated the role of the family in the organ donation process. A comprehensive search was conducted across major databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, Emerald, and SID, covering the period from 2020 to 2024. A total of 69 relevant studies were identified and included in the analysis. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis with Excel and MAXQDA software to identify key points of contact and influential factors in this domain.
Results: A thorough review of 69 relevant articles identified three key areas: social, cultural, and psychological factors with six components; factors influencing family decision-making in organ donation with three components; and factors affecting effective family communication with four components.
Conclusion: Applying social marketing principles, with a focus on family needs and values, can enhance awareness and participation in organ donation. Despite identifying successful factors, a combined examination of these factors has been rarely conducted, representing a gap in the literature. It is suggested that long-term strategies be formulated and their effects monitored to improve family behavior.