Abstract
Literature on the relationship between childhood cancer and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) is mixed. Research has shown that other factors (i.e., family problems, treatment intensity, stressful life events) impact this relationship. Researchers have examined the relationship between post-traumatic growth and experiencing cancer. We examined the psychological impact of childhood cancer on survivors. Participants (N = 105; M = 41.88 years, SD = 19.05) were typically female (58.4% women), White (69.8% White) adults. Using quota sampling, 42 participants experienced and completed cancer treatment before the age of 18, whereas 54 participants did not. Childhood cancer survivors were significantly more likely to have higher PTSS and post-traumatic growth than people who were not diagnosed with childhood cancer. Moreover, treatment intensity mediated this relationship. However, family problems and stressful life events did not moderate the relationship between experiencing cancer and PTSS. The findings could be used in interventions for reducing and treating PTSS in childhood cancer survivors.
Suggested Reviewers
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Recommended Citation
Wheatley, Gwendolyn D. and Goncy, Elizabeth A.
(2024)
"The Relationship Between Childhood Cancer, Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms, and Contributing Factors,"
Merrill-Palmer Quarterly: A Peer Relations Journal: Vol. 70:
Iss.
3, Article 8.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/mpq/vol70/iss3/8