Children's perceived social support after a parent is diagnosed with cancer

Abstract

This study examined perceived social support among children of parents diagnosed with cancer. Twenty-nine participants, ages 18-38, who had been children when one of their parents was diagnosed with cancer provided demographic information and participated in an interview about the impact of their parent's illness on their lives. Five common themes characterized participants' perceived social support received during their parent's illness: (a) listening and understanding; (b) encouragement and reassurance; (c) tangible assistance; (d) communication about cancer and treatment; and (e) engaging in normal life experiences. Depending on the circumstances, however, a given type of social support was perceived to be helpful to some, while perceived by others as ineffective or detrimental. Differences in respondents' perceptions of the effects of specific forms of received social support speak to the need for individualized support for children of cancer patients based upon each child's specific needs and circumstances.