Parental cancer: communication, daily life changes and psychosocial support: a qualitative study of adolescents and young adults who experienced parental cancer during adolescence.

BACKGROUND

A parent's cancer diagnosis affects all family members. Adolescents in particular seem to be vulnerable to distress and changes associated with the cancer diagnosis. This study aims to gather information about the experiences of adolescents whose parents have cancer. We analysed communication and changes in daily life due to the parents' illness, as well as preferences for professional psychosocial support.

METHODS

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 17 participants aged 15-35 years, who had experienced a parent's cancer in their youth. The analysis was conducted through content analysis, and the results are reported according to the COREQ criteria.

RESULTS

The data analysis yielded the following key themes: cancer-specific communication, the impact of cancer on the family and on adolescents, preferences for professional psychosocial support and advice for adolescents with a parent with cancer. According to the interviewees, most families talked about their parents' cancer. However, the extent and content varied greatly. The most frequently mentioned topics were facts about cancer and treatment. Information was frequently shared in the event of a medical appointment or intervention being scheduled. The emotional impact of the illness was rarely discussed. Both positive and negative effects on role shifts and dynamics within the family were reported, e.g., greater family cohesion or more conflicts. With regard to support needs, the majority of participants considered psychosocial support services to be useful, whether in individual sessions, with family or in groups. The optimal approach would be a combination of conversations and activities, such as joint excursions or creative activities. Furthermore, participants expressed the view that parents should make use of support services and that teachers and schools should play a more active role. They would advise other affected individuals to engage in open dialogue with parents and to seek support if necessary.

CONCLUSION

The study shows that a parent's cancer diagnosis in adolescence can significantly impact various aspects of life, and that young people want to be involved in communication about their parents' illness. The findings suggest personalised psychosocial support, especially through peer groups, is effective in supporting adolescents with a parent who has cancer.