How do young adults with cancer perceive social support? A qualitative study.

The social support of adolescents and young adults (AYA) has been studied very little. 18 interviews were conducted and evaluated with content analysis (inter-rater reliability = 0.87). All of the young adult cancer patients interviewed reported having received social support from at least two people (family, friends, and/or partner). Forms of emotional and instrumental support were more often reported than informational support. 12 participants described having received nonhelpful support, especially in areas of dealing with their situation, limited social participation, and distancing of friends. The participants considered social exchanges with other young adult cancer patients an important source of social support. AYA cancer patient networking should be improved.