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Social adjustment of adolescent cancer patients transitioning off active treatment: A short‐term prospective mixed methods study
Author(s) -
Chan Sherilynn F.,
Hoag Jennifer A.,
Karst Jeffrey S.,
Bingen Kristin M.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
pediatric blood and cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.116
H-Index - 105
eISSN - 1545-5017
pISSN - 1545-5009
DOI - 10.1002/pbc.27530
Subject(s) - psychosocial , cbcl , medicine , child behavior checklist , pediatric cancer , survivorship curve , social competence , clinical psychology , checklist , competence (human resources) , cancer , psychiatry , psychology , social change , social psychology , economics , cognitive psychology , economic growth
Background Psychosocial follow‐up in survivorship is a standard of care in pediatric oncology; however, little is known about patients’ psychosocial functioning during the transition off active treatment, a unique time in the cancer journey. This study examined the social adjustment of adolescent cancer patients during this transition period, which has been understudied to date. Procedure Participants were 21 patients (ages 12–18 years; age M = 14.71 years; 62% female, 81% White) with various cancer diagnoses. Patients and their parents completed the Social Competence subscale of the Youth Self‐Report (YSR) and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), respectively, PedsQL Social Functioning subscale, and a semistructured interview 1–2 months prior to ending treatment (time 1) and 3–7 months after ending treatment (time 2). Results YSR and CBCL social competence scores were within the normal range at both time points. PedsQL social functioning scores were more consistent with norms for pediatric cancer samples at time 1 and norms for healthy children at time 2, with self‐reported scores significantly improving from time 1 to time 2. A subset of patients had elevated social concerns at time 1, a number that decreased by time 2. Interviews revealed both positive and negative themes related to peer relationships and support, quantity of friends, and socialization. Conclusions Most adolescent cancer patients are socially well adjusted as they transition off treatment, although a subset have elevated concerns. Interviews provide insight into complex social experiences not captured on questionnaires. Patients may benefit from screening and support during this unique time.