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Koutná V, Blatný M, Jelínek M. Posttraumatic stress and growth in adolescent childhood cancer survivors: Links to quality of life. Front Psychol 2022; 13:992310. [PMID: 36160575 PMCID: PMC9505020 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.992310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pediatric cancer can be considered an event potentially leading to posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) as well as posttraumatic growth (PTG). While clinically significant levels of PTSS are rare in childhood cancer survivors, PTG is common in this population. However, the relationship of PTG to overall adaptation and quality of life (QOL) in pediatric cancer patients is not clear. Therefore, our study aims to analyse the relationships of PTSS and PTG with QOL in childhood cancer survivors. In this study, 172 childhood cancer survivors completed measures of quality of life (Minneapolis-Manchester Quality of Life Scale; child and adolescent version), posttraumatic stress (UCLA PTSD Reaction Index for DMS-IV) and posttraumatic growth (Benefit Finding Scale for Children). Correlation analyses were carried out separately for the child (up to 13 years, N = 47) and adolescent (more than 13 years, N = 125) groups and each QOL dimension. In the adolescent group, the relationship of PTSS and PTG with QOL was further verified by regression analyses while controlling for age, gender, and time off treatment. In children, negative relationships between PTSS and QOL were found, but the relationships between QOL and PTG were not significant. In adolescents, significant relationships were found for all dimensions of QOL and PTSS and also for several dimensions of QOL and PTG. The relationships between PTSS and QOL dimensions were negative in both groups, and the relationships between PTG and QOL in the adolescent group were weakly positive. In adolescents, regression analyses controlling for age, gender and time off treatment were performed and confirmed a negative relationship of PTSS with all QOL dimensions except for social functioning. For PTG, regression analyses revealed a significant positive relationship with QOL dimensions of social functioning, outlook on life and intimate relations. While the relationship between PTSS and QOL is negative for almost all QOL dimensions in children and adolescents, the nature of the relationship between PTG and QOL appears to be more complex and changing over time. PTG in children may reflect different processes with different outcomes than PTG in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Koutná
- Institute of Psychology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Veronika Koutná,
| | - Marek Blatný
- Institute of Psychology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Martin Jelínek
- Institute of Psychology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czechia
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
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Sharp K, Tillery R, Long A, Wang F, Pan H, Phipps S. Trajectories of resilience and posttraumatic stress in childhood cancer: Consistency of child and parent outcomes. Psychol Health 2022; 41:256-267. [PMID: 34855418 PMCID: PMC9809178 DOI: 10.1037/hea0001132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Childhood cancer represents a potentially traumatic experience for both patients and caregivers. We examined trajectories of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) across a 5-year period in children with a history of cancer and their parents/caregivers. Medical, demographic, and dispositional variables were examined as predictors of PTSS trajectories. METHOD Using a longitudinal design, children with cancer history (n = 254, age 8-17 years at baseline) and one parent or caregiver (n = 255) completed measures of PTSS at baseline, and 1-, 3-, and 5-years poststudy entry. Children and caregivers completed dispositional measures including optimism, positive or negative affect, and Five-Factor Inventories. Latent class growth analysis (LCGA) was used to identify latent trajectories of PTSS, and univariate logistic regression models were conducted to predict LCGA class membership from medical, demographic, and disposition factors Results: Very similar trajectories were observed in children and caregivers, with two-class solutions providing the best fit: a "resilient" class, with low PTSS at baseline, which declined significantly over time (83.5% in children; 71.5% in parents), and an "elevated PTSS" class, which was moderately high at baseline and increased significantly over time. There was a small, but significant relationship between child and caregiver trajectories. Latent trajectories observed in children and parents were more strongly associated with dispositional variables than medical factors. CONCLUSIONS Resilience, depicted by low PTSS, is by far the most common outcome observed in both children and caregivers. However, the smaller subset with elevated PTSS do not show recovery over time, and are identified as a group in need of targeted interventions. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Katianne Sharp
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Rachel Tillery
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Alanna Long
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Haitao Pan
- Department of Biostatistics, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
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3
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Deodhar J, Goswami SS, Sonkusare LN. A Retrospective Observational Study of Problems Faced by Children and Adolescents with Cancer: A 5-year Experience from a Pediatric Psycho-Oncology Service in India. Indian J Med Paediatr Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1740069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction Psychological concerns are common in children and adolescents with cancer, for which they require referral to specialist services. There is a dearth of pediatric psycho-oncology services in India. There are limited studies on emotional and related distress in children.
Objectives To evaluate the types of problems and associated factors in children and adolescents with cancer referred to the pediatric psycho-oncology service in a tertiary care oncology center in India.
Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis of all referrals to the institution's pediatric psycho-oncology service over 5 years was performed. Patients newly referred to the service, up to 18 years of age, with a cancer diagnosis, on active disease-modifying treatment or supportive care or following up within 2 years of completion of treatment were included. Patients not on any disease-modifying treatment and receiving the best supportive care only were excluded as needs and problems would differ in this group. Patients whose medical records were incomplete were excluded too. Descriptive measures and tests of association were performed for analysis.
Results Of the 278 children referred to the service in 5 years, 66.5% were males. The average age was 11 years (standard deviation [SD]: 4.5). Most children had hematolymphoid cancers (58.2%). All reported problems were mainly emotional/behavioral (59%), physical health-related (21%), and academic (14%). Male children, referred from outpatient clinics and undergoing treatment with palliative intent, had more emotional problems, but these factors were not statistically significant.
Conclusion Children and adolescents with cancer had different problems, most commonly emotional/behavioral and physical health-related. Age, gender, and treatment intent were factors associated with emotional problems. Psychosocial care services for children and adolescents with cancer are necessary for low-resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayita Deodhar
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Savita S. Goswami
- Psycho-oncology Unit, Tata Memorial Hospital, Dr. E. Borges Road, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Lekhika N. Sonkusare
- Psycho-oncology Unit, Tata Memorial Hospital, Dr. E. Borges Road, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Willard VW, Tillery R, Harman JL, Long A, Phipps S. The Influence of Early Childhood Temperament on Later Social-Emotional Functioning in Youth with Cancer. J Pediatr Psychol 2021; 46:433-442. [PMID: 33355354 PMCID: PMC8355438 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsaa120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE One of the peak incidences of childhood cancer is during the early childhood years. This is also an important time for psychosocial and personality development, and it is well known that early childhood temperament influences later psychosocial functioning. However, this association has not been examined in young children with cancer. METHODS Parents of children with cancer (N = 39) and healthy comparisons (N = 35) completed an indicator of temperament (Children's Behavior Questionnaire) when children were young (Mage=4.99 ± 1.05 years). Five years later, parents and youth completed measures of psychosocial functioning (Mage=10.15 ± 1.10 years; Behavior Assessment Scale for Children, 2nd edition and Social Emotional Assets and Resilience Scale). RESULTS Parents of healthy comparisons reported that their children demonstrated greater surgency than youth with cancer; there were no differences in negative affect or effortful control. Children with cancer and healthy comparisons were rated similarly on measures of psychosocial functioning. Health status was not a significant predictor of later functioning, but socioeconomic status and temperament were. The influence of temperament was stronger for strengths-based functioning (e.g., social competence, adaptive functioning) versus distress (internalizing and externalizing problems). CONCLUSIONS Early childhood temperament is a strong predictor of later psychosocial functioning, regardless of health status. Findings highlight the need to consider temperament in the clinical assessment of psychosocial functioning in children with cancer. Additional research is needed to specifically assess how a diagnosis of cancer in early childhood influences temperament over time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel Tillery
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
| | | | - Alanna Long
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
| | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
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Wayant C, Manquen J, Wendelbo H, Kerr N, Crow M, Goodell J, Tricco AC, Mack JW, Hellman C, Vassar M. Identification of Evidence for Key Positive Psychological Constructs in Pediatric and Adolescent/Young Adult Patients with Cancer: A Scoping Review. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 10:247-259. [PMID: 33464990 PMCID: PMC8220547 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2020.0184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Children and adolescents/young adults (AYAs) with cancer are a vulnerable population susceptible to numerous late effects, such as fatigue and depression, which may diminish their long-term psychological, physical, spiritual, and emotional health. A well-rounded understanding of how positive psychological constructs affect the quality of care and treatment outcomes is therefore warranted. Methods: We conducted a scoping review of 15 positive psychological constructs in children and AYAs with cancer. The primary research questions were (1) what is known about positive psychological constructs in children and AYAs with cancer; (2) what value is ascribed to these constructs by patients? Results: Two hundred seventy-six articles were included after database search and screening. These studies were mostly observational or qualitative and conducted in North America. Constructs were often poorly defined, and measurement tools used to gather data were wide ranging. Numerous factors were correlated with increased or decreased expression of certain constructs, but overall themes were difficult to identify. Similarly, patients often spoke of what increased or decreased expression of a construct, with less emphasis on what they implicitly value. Discussion: This scoping review found ample evidence for what increases or decreases expression of positive psychological constructs, but this evidence was observational and often conflicting. In the future, we recommend the development of a core set of psychological outcomes, with definitions and corresponding measurement tools. We further recommend an emphasis on randomized trials to more rigorously study how expression of constructs can be improved and what effect this has on the quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cole Wayant
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jack Manquen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Hannah Wendelbo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Natalie Kerr
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Matt Crow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Jon Goodell
- Department of Library Services, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Andrea C Tricco
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Epidemiology Division, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jennifer W Mack
- Division of Population Sciences, Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Chan Hellman
- School of Social Work, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Matt Vassar
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
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6
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Carlsen LT, Christensen SR. Childhood cancer patients' baseline for social affiliation as a determining factor for the self-reported impact of person-based exclusion. J Psychosoc Oncol 2020; 38:714-727. [PMID: 32758028 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2020.1798577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Childhood cancer patients experience a challenging reentry to social activities after diagnosis. This study aims to generate knowledge about the challenges experienced by childhood cancer patients with peers during and after treatment. DESIGN This study is a qualitative mixed study. PARTICIPANTS The study included 70 children - 34 boys and 36 girls - aged 3 to 17 years who are affiliated with a pediatric oncology unit in Denmark. FINDINGS Childhood cancer patients experience two types of exclusion: (1) unavoidable diagnosis-related exclusion and (2) person-based exclusion from teachers, peers, and peers' parents. Person-based exclusion is manifested through the perceived insecurity of peers, misconceptions, and bullying. The impact and degree of these interactions partly depend on the patients' social affiliation prior to cancer. IMPLICATION FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL PROVIDERS There is a need to understand the exclusion experiences of childhood cancer patients and identify particularly vulnerable children to reduce the self-reported impact of person-based exclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Thoft Carlsen
- Patient Support and Community Activities, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Sociology and Social Work, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Sophie Rex Christensen
- Patient Support and Community Activities, Danish Cancer Society Research Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Gallagher MW, Long LJ, Phillips CA. Hope, optimism, self‐efficacy, and posttraumatic stress disorder: A meta‐analytic review of the protective effects of positive expectancies. J Clin Psychol 2019; 76:329-355. [DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W. Gallagher
- Department of Psychology, Texas Institute for Measurement, Evaluation, and StatisticsUniversity of HoustonHouston Texas
| | - Laura J. Long
- Department of Psychology, Texas Institute for Measurement, Evaluation, and StatisticsUniversity of HoustonHouston Texas
| | - Colleen A. Phillips
- Department of Psychology, Texas Institute for Measurement, Evaluation, and StatisticsUniversity of HoustonHouston Texas
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8
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The Effects of Hospital Clowning on Physical and Emotional States of Pediatric Patients During Chemotherapy Treatment. CHILD & YOUTH CARE FORUM 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10566-019-09532-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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9
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Tillery R, Willard VW, Long A, Phipps S. Posttraumatic stress in young children with cancer: Risk factors and comparison with healthy peers. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2019; 66:e27775. [PMID: 31038281 PMCID: PMC7417025 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.27775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The most commonly occurring childhood cancers are diagnosed during the preschool years; yet limited psycho-oncology research has focused on this developmental time period. The primary objective was to examine rates of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in young children with cancer and compare these findings with those of children without a history of serious illness (comparisons). The secondary aim was to examine risk and modifiable factors associated with PTSS. METHOD Ninety-seven caregivers of patients (n = 50) and comparisons (n = 47) aged three to six years completed diagnostic interviews for the assessment of PTSD. They also completed a survey measure of PTSS adapted from the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL-PTSD), along with measures of their child's temperament and their own current psychological functioning. RESULTS On the CBCL-PTSD, no differences in PTSS were observed between children with cancer and comparisons, although many in both groups appeared at risk, with approximately 34% of children with cancer and 27% of comparisons meeting threshold scores for probable PTSD. However, using a "gold-standard" clinical-interview assessment, only three children in the patient group and no children in the comparison group met diagnostic criteria for PTSD. Parental distress and child temperament were significantly associated with PTSS scores. CONCLUSION Findings indicate PTSD is relatively infrequent in children with cancer, and survey measures may overestimate rates of PTSD in young children. However, other emotional or behavioral issues may be present. Ultimately, screening for potential emotional/behavioral concerns in young children with cancer is indicated, and interventions should continue to target caregiver distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Tillery
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Victoria W. Willard
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Alanna Long
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
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10
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The Effect of Optimism and Connectedness on Psychological Adjustment of Children with Cancer and Comparison Peers. J Dev Behav Pediatr 2019; 40:208-216. [PMID: 30633067 PMCID: PMC7192235 DOI: 10.1097/dbp.0000000000000641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to examine the relationship of optimism and connectedness with psychological adjustment outcomes in children with cancer and determine whether these relations differ for children with cancer and comparison peers. METHODS Participants were 155 children with cancer and 143 comparison youth without a history of cancer, aged 8 to 17 years at study entry, who were followed longitudinally over a 3-year period. Participants completed self-report measures at 3 time points: baseline optimism at study entry (T1), connectedness at 1 year after baseline (T2), and emotional symptoms at 3 years after baseline (T3). A series of regression analyses were conducted using conditional process analysis to examine whether connectedness mediated the relationship between optimism and psychological adjustment and whether this was moderated by health status (i.e., history of childhood cancer vs no history of cancer or other serious or chronic illness). RESULTS Connectedness to parents, peers, and friends significantly mediated the relationship between optimism and psychological adjustment (b parents = -0.1387, 95% confidence interval [CI] [-0.2341 to -0.0515]; b peers = -0.2021, 95% CI [-0.3575 to -0.0818]; b friends = -0.0703, 95% CI [-0.1640 to -0.0050]). However, this mediation was not significantly moderated by having a history of cancer. Cancer history did moderate the direct relationship between optimism and psychological adjustment and between connectedness to parents and psychological adjustment. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that patients with cancer are doing remarkably well with regard to adjustment. Connectedness with parents and peers mediates the relationship between optimism and psychological adjustment. As such, children with cancer who are identified as experiencing poor adjustment may benefit from interventions to foster connectedness.
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Szentes A, Erős N, Kekecs Z, Jakab Z, Török S, Schuler D, Hauser P, Garami M. Cognitive deficits and psychopathological symptoms among children with medulloblastoma. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2018; 27:e12912. [DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Revised: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nikoletta Erős
- 2 Department of Pediatrics; Semmelweis University; Budapest Hungary
| | - Zoltán Kekecs
- Department of Psychology; Lund University; Lund Sweden
| | - Zsuzsanna Jakab
- 2 Department of Pediatrics; Semmelweis University; Budapest Hungary
| | - Szabolcs Török
- Institute of Mental Health; Semmelweis University; Budapest Hungary
| | - Dezső Schuler
- 2 Department of Pediatrics; Semmelweis University; Budapest Hungary
| | - Péter Hauser
- 2 Department of Pediatrics; Semmelweis University; Budapest Hungary
| | - Miklós Garami
- 2 Department of Pediatrics; Semmelweis University; Budapest Hungary
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12
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Howard Sharp KM, Willard VW, Barnes S, Tillery R, Long A, Phipps S. Emotion Socialization in the Context of Childhood Cancer: Perceptions of Parental Support Promotes Posttraumatic Growth. J Pediatr Psychol 2018; 42:95-103. [PMID: 28175326 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsw062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Examined youth’s perceptions of parental reactions to youth’s cancer and non-cancer event-related distress and the link between perceptions of parental reactions and youth posttraumatic growth (PTG). Method Participants included 201 youth (8–21 years) with a history of cancer. Participants self-identified their most stressful life event, which were characterized as cancer or non-cancer related, and then completed measures in reference to this event assessing (1) their perceptions of parent reactions to event-related distress and (2) PTG. Results Youth who identified a cancer-related event perceived their parents as reacting with more support and reassurance/distraction than those who identified a non-cancer event. Perceptions of parental support, reassurance/distraction, and magnification of youth distress were associated with more PTG, with event type (cancer vs. non-cancer) indirectly predicting PTG through perceptions of parental support. Conclusion Youth perceive their parents as reacting differently to cancer versus non-cancer distress, which is in turn predictive of their perceptions of growth. Findings suggest that parental support and reassurance/distraction are possible mechanisms facilitating resilience and growth in children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katianne M Howard Sharp
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.,Department of Psychology, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of Mississippi Medical Center, MS, USA
| | - Victoria W Willard
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sarah Barnes
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.,Department of Psychology, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Rachel Tillery
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.,Department of Psychology, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA.,Baylor College of Medicine/Texas Children’s Hospital , University of Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Alanna Long
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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13
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Schulte F, Wurz A, Russell KB, Reynolds K, Strother D, Dewey D. Social adjustment and repressive adaptive style in survivors of pediatric cancer. J Psychosoc Oncol 2018; 36:274-286. [PMID: 29452053 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2018.1431754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between repressive adaptive style and self-reports of social adjustment in survivors of pediatric cancer compared to their siblings. We hypothesized that there would be a greater proportion of repressors among survivors of pediatric cancer compared to siblings, and that repressive adaptive style would be significantly associated with more positive self-reports of social adjustment. METHODS We utilized a cross-sectional approach. Seventy-seven families participated. Survivors of pediatric cancer (n = 77, 48% male; 8-18 years of age) and one sibling (n = 50, 48% male; 8-18 years of age) completed measures assessing repressive adaptive style and social adjustment. As well, one parent from each family completed a socio-demographic questionnaire. Questionnaire packages were mailed to eligible families who agreed to participate, and were mailed back to investigators in a pre-addressed, pre-stamped envelope. RESULTS Chi-square analyses revealed there was no significant difference in the proportion of repressors among survivors and siblings. Social adjustment scores were subjected to a two (group: survivor, sibling) by two (repressor, nonrepressor) ANCOVA with gender and age as covariates. There was a significant main effect of repressive adaptive style (F = 5.69, p < .05, η2 = 0.05) with a modest effect. Survivors and siblings with a repressive style reported significantly higher social adjustment scores (M = 106.91, SD = 11.69) compared to nonrepressors (M = 99.57, SD = 13.45). CONCLUSIONS Repressive adaptive style explains some of the variance in survivors and siblings' self-reports of social adjustment. Future research should aim to better understand the role of the repressive adaptive style in survivors and siblings of children with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Schulte
- a Department of Oncology, Division of Psychosocial Oncology , Cumming School of Medicine and Hematology, Oncology and Transplant Program, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary , Alberta , Canada
| | - Amanda Wurz
- b School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa , Ottawa , Ontario , Canada
| | - K Brooke Russell
- c Hematology, Oncology and Transplant Program, Alberta Children's Hospital, Departments of Psychology and Oncology , Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary , Calgary , Alberta , Canada
| | - Kathleen Reynolds
- d Long Term Survivor Clinic, Alberta Children's Hospital, Clinical Lecturer, Department of Family Medicine , University of Calgary , Calgary , Alberta , Canada
| | - Douglas Strother
- e Departments of Oncology, Pediatrics , University of Calgary, Division of Hematology Oncology Bone Marrow Transplantation, Alberta Children's Hospital , Calgary , Alberta , Canada
| | - Deborah Dewey
- f Departments of Pediatrics & Community Health Sciences , University of Calgary, Director, Behavioural Research Unit , Calgary , Alberta , Canada
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Johannsdottir IM, Loge JH, Kiserud CE, Karlstad Ø, Skurtveit S. Increased prescription rates of anxiolytics and hypnotics to survivors of cancer in childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood-A population-based study. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2018; 65. [PMID: 29077266 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.26860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Survivors of cancer diagnosed in childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood (CAYACS) risk psychological morbidities later in life. The study compares prescription rates of anxiolytics and hypnotics among survivors to rates in age- and gender-matched controls. PROCEDURES The population-based cohort included 5,341 cancer survivors, diagnosed ≤25 years of age during 1965-2000. For each survivor, three age- and gender-matched controls were randomly selected from the general population. Data were identified from the Norwegian Cancer and Population registries and linked to the Norwegian Prescription Database. A Cox proportional hazard model was applied to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) of prescriptions during 2004-2012 to the survivors with controls as referents. RESULTS Survivors had an increased risk of being prescribed anxiolytics with crude rates of 16.9/1,000 person years compared to 11.8/1,000 person years in controls (HR 1.41; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-1.54). The relative risk was highest for survivors of neuroblastomas (HR 2.62; 95% CI 1.11-6.16), bone tumors (HR 2.00; 95% CI 1.26-3.18), and central nervous system tumors (HR 1.90; 95% CI 1.40-2.51). The risk of being prescribed hypnotics was increased with crude rates of 20.8/1,000 person years compared to 14.3/1,000 person years in controls (HR 1.44; 95% CI 1.32-1.56). The relative risk was highest for survivors of gastrointestinal tumors (HR 1.80; 95% CI 1.04-3.10), leukemias (HR 1.78; 95% CI 1.32-2.38), and soft tissue cancers (HR 1.70; 95% CI 1.09-2.64). CONCLUSIONS Certain groups of CAYACS have an increased risk for being prescribed anxiolytics or hypnotics compared to controls. Diagnostic reasons for prescriptions are unknown, but the results indicate an increased emotional burden among these groups of survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Maria Johannsdottir
- National Advisory Unit on Late Effects After Cancer Treatment, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Deparment of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jon H Loge
- Department of Oncology, Regional Advisory Unit for Palliative Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cecilie E Kiserud
- National Advisory Unit on Late Effects After Cancer Treatment, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øystein Karlstad
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Svetlana Skurtveit
- Department of Mental Disorders, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Norwegian Centre for Addiction Research, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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15
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Sharp KMH, Lindwall JJ, Willard VW, Long AM, Martin-Elbahesh KM, Phipps S. Cancer as a stressful life event: Perceptions of children with cancer and their peers. Cancer 2017; 123:3385-3393. [PMID: 28472536 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.30741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The medical traumatic stress model is commonly applied to childhood cancer, assuming that the diagnosis of cancer is a traumatic event. However, to the authors' knowledge, little is known regarding what specifically children perceive as stressful about cancer or how it compares with other stressful events more often experienced by children. METHODS Children with cancer (254 children) and demographically similar peers without a history of serious illness (202 children) identified their most stressful life event as part of a diagnostic interview assessing for symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The events identified as most stressful were categorized thematically, with categories established separately for cancer-related and non-cancer-related events. Events also were examined to assess whether they met Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) A criteria for PTSD. RESULTS In the group of children with cancer, 54% described a cancer-related event as the most stressful event they had experienced. Six distinct categories of cancer-related events and 10 categories of non-cancer-related events were identified. The same noncancer events were identified by children in both groups, and occurred at similar frequencies. The percentage of cancer-related events that met DSM A criteria for PTSD differed dramatically depending on which version of the DSM was applied. CONCLUSIONS Children do not necessarily view their cancer experience as their most stressful life event. The findings of the current study suggest that the diagnosis of cancer might be better viewed as a manageable stressor rather than a major trauma, and are consistent with the change in the fifth edition of the DSM to eliminate the diagnosis of a life-threatening illness as a qualifying trauma for PTSD. Cancer 2017;123:3385-93. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katianne M Howard Sharp
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.,Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jennifer J Lindwall
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Victoria W Willard
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Alanna M Long
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
| | | | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee
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16
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Predictors of Posttraumatic Stress and Posttraumatic Growth in Childhood Cancer Survivors. Cancers (Basel) 2017; 9:cancers9030026. [PMID: 28300764 PMCID: PMC5366821 DOI: 10.3390/cancers9030026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2016] [Revised: 02/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This longitudinal study aims to analyze predictors of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and posttraumatic growth (PTG) among gender, age, objective factors of the disease and its treatment, family environment factors and negative emotionality. The sample consisted of 97 childhood cancer survivors (50 girls and 47 boys) aged 11-25 years who were in remission 1.7 to seven years at T1 and four to 12.5 years at T2. Survivors completed a set of questionnaires including the Benefit Finding Scale for Children and the University of California at Los Angeles Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Index. Regression and correlation analyses were performed. The relation between PTSS and PTG was not proven. A higher level of PTSS (T2) was associated with higher levels of negative emotionality (T1). A higher level of PTG (T2) was connected to a higher level of warmth in parenting (T1), female gender and older age at assessment. Medical variables such as the severity of late effects and the time from treatment completion did not play a significant role in the prediction of PTSS and PTG. PTG and PTSS are more influenced by factors of parenting and emotional well-being of childhood cancer survivors than by objective medical data.
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17
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Okado Y, Howard Sharp KM, Tillery R, Long AM, Phipps S. Profiles of Dispositional Expectancies and Affectivity Predict Later Psychosocial Functioning in Children and Adolescents With Cancer. J Pediatr Psychol 2015; 41:298-308. [PMID: 26476282 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsv096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Examined how individual differences in disposition among pediatric cancer patients predict their later psychosocial functioning. METHODS Patients aged 8-17 years (N = 223) reported on their disposition at baseline. One and three years later, self-reports and parent reports of patient psychosocial functioning were obtained. Latent profile analysis was used to identify subgroups that differed on baseline disposition and to compare them on later outcomes. ESULTS Three groups were identified: The "Positive" group (59%) had high optimism and positive affectivity and low pessimism and negative affectivity; the "Moderate" group (39%) had a similar profile, with less exaggerated scores; a small, "Negative" group (2%) had the opposite profile (low optimism/positive affectivity; high pessimism/negative affectivity). These groups differed in psychosocial functioning at follow-up, generally in expected directions. CONCLUSIONS Most patients have a disposition that may be protective. A small minority at high risk for maladjustment is distinguished by their disposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Okado
- Department of Psychology, California State University, Fullerton, Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
| | - Katianne M Howard Sharp
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Department of Psychology, University of Memphis, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Rachel Tillery
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Department of Psychology, University of Memphis, and
| | - Alanna M Long
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
| | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital,
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18
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Willard VW, Long A, Phipps S. Life stress versus traumatic stress: The impact of life events on psychological functioning in children with and without serious illness. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA-THEORY RESEARCH PRACTICE AND POLICY 2014; 8:63-71. [PMID: 26766295 DOI: 10.1037/tra0000017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the differential impact of potentially traumatic events (PTEs) and other stressful life events on psychological functioning in 2 groups of children: those with cancer and those without history of serious illness. METHOD Children with cancer age 8-17 (n = 254) and age-, sex-, and race/ethnicity-matched controls (n = 142) completed self-report measures of stressful life events and psychological functioning. Stressful life events included those that may meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 2000) A1 criteria (PTEs; 9 events) and others that would likely not (other events; 21 events). RESULTS Children with cancer endorsed significantly more PTEs than control children. There were no differences between groups in number of other events experienced. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that number of other events accounted for significant variance in psychological functioning, above and beyond group status, demographic factors (age and socioeconomic status), and number of PTEs. DISCUSSION The number of cumulative other events experienced is a significant predictor of psychological functioning in both youth with serious illness and controls. In contrast, cumulative PTEs appear to have a minor (albeit significant) impact on children's psychological functioning. Assessment of psychological functioning would benefit from a thorough history of stressful life events, regardless of their potential traumatic impact.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alanna Long
- Department of Psychology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital
| | - Sean Phipps
- Department of Psychology, St Jude Children's Research Hospital
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