Psychosocial issues of adolescents with cancer

Soc Work Health Care. 1998;27(4):3-18. doi: 10.1300/J010v27n04_02.

Abstract

Although researchers agree that cancer during adolescence does not lead to serious psychopathology, the adolescent patient is confronted with a number of biopsychosocial problems. This article reviews the literature on nine psychosocial issues: (1) Health concerns, (2) Family relationships, (3) Sexual and reproductive issues, (4) Peer relationships, (5) Body image, (6) School disruption, (7) Interaction with treatment team, (8) Future goals and career development, and (9) Positive life changes. Practice implications and support group interventions for this population are presented.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Achievement
  • Adolescent
  • Attitude to Health
  • Body Image
  • Family Health
  • Goals
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Professional-Patient Relations
  • Psychology, Adolescent*
  • Psychotherapy / methods
  • Self-Help Groups
  • Sexuality / psychology
  • Social Adjustment
  • Social Work / methods
  • Survivors / psychology