A Qualitative Inquiry of Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors' Perspectives of Independence

Abstract

Purpose:

This report examines facilitators and barriers to independence for a sample of survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer.

Methods:

We conducted 53 semistructured, in-depth interviews with adult survivors of cancer diagnosed at ages 0–20 years. Researchers qualitatively coded themes to reflect responses to the question inquiring about how cancer may have affected survivors' independence from their parents.

Results:

Among the 21 survivors who reported that cancer affected their independence, themes included challenges and motivators to independence following cancer. Challenges to independence included overprotection by parents, financial dependence, problems in healthcare decision-making, and emotional dependence. Motivators included self-confidence, desire for independence, parental support, and inadequate family support.

Conclusion:

Supportive care for survivors of childhood and adolescent cancers should include services to help them in their journey toward developmental independence.