Factors Affecting Social Adjustment of Childhood Cancer Survivors

Oh, Su Mi; Lee, Hye Jung; Kim, Gwang Suk; Park, Kyung Duk

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purposes of this study were to assess social adjustment of childhood cancer survivors and to identify factors affecting social adjustment.
METHODS
Data were collected from 79 childhood cancer survivors and his/her parents. The survey consisted of questions related to characteristics, physical functioning, depression, self-esteem and coping strategies. The Social Competence Inventory was used to measure social adjustment in the children.
RESULTS
The level of social adjustment of childhood cancer survivors was 83.5 out of a possible 155. Physical functioning, depression, self-esteem, and aggressive or proactive coping strategies were associated with social adjustment. Only physical functioning independently affected social adjustment.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study indicate that there are several factors influencing social adjustment of childhood cancer survivors, and therefore there is a need for programs that deal with all aspects of children's physical as well as emotional health in order to enhance their social adjustment.