Adaptation Experience and Social Support Network of Adolescent Cancer Survivors

Cho, Eunji; Park, Eun Sook

Abstract

PURPOSE
The main purpose of this study was to explore the adaptation experience of adolescent cancer survivors during and after cancer treatment, and their perceived social support networks.
METHODS
This study was a qualitative descriptive study using the in-depth interview. Eight adolescent cancer survivors who were diagnosed with cancer between 11 to 18 years old participated in the study.
RESULTS
The adaptation experiences of adolescent cancer survivors over time were identified within five categories for during their treatment such as "being catapulted from one's life,""standing at the center of discomfort,""falling behind the line,""accepting the change,""being developed", and another five categories for after the treatment including "being shackled,""encountering the forgotten reality,""overcoming and emerging from the reality,""growing into adulthood,""entering into a new orbit." Participants reported the various members of their social support network and their roles during and after the treatment as well.
CONCLUSION
While adolescent cancer survivors adjusted to their changing situations after the cancer diagnosis, their internalized adaptation, as well as perceived social support from their diverse surrounding network, played significant roles. These findings will become a valuable asset for developing age-appropriate nursing interventions to promote psychosocial adjustment of adolescents with cancer.