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Published on: March 22, 2017
Repressive adaptation in children with cancer: a replication and extension
1Division of Behavioral Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105-2794, USA. sean.phipps@stjude.org
Summary
Children with cancer exhibit a repressive adaptive style, which appears to be a reaction to their diagnosis rather than a pre-existing trait. This coping mechanism remains stable over time.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Previous studies indicate a higher prevalence of repressive adaptive styles in pediatric cancer patients.
- The origin of this repressive adaptation (premorbid vs. reactive) in children with cancer remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether repressive adaptation in children with cancer is a premorbid characteristic or a reactive response to diagnosis.
- To assess the longitudinal changes in adaptive style among children with cancer.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study design was employed.
- Adaptive style was assessed in children with cancer at diagnosis, 6 months, and 1 year post-diagnosis.
- Comparison groups included healthy children and children with other chronic nonmalignant illnesses.
Main Results:
- Children with cancer demonstrated a higher incidence of repressive adaptive style at diagnosis compared to healthy children.
- The incidence of repressive adaptation remained consistent throughout the 1-year follow-up period.
- Children with other chronic illnesses exhibited similar levels of repressive adaptive style as the cancer group.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that the diagnosis of cancer prompts a shift towards repressive adaptation in children, which is sustained over time.
- Further research is warranted to explore the health implications of this adaptive style in pediatric cancer patients.
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