Advancing biobehavioral research in childhood cancer

Research on individual and family responses to a child's or adolescent's cancer diagnosis and treatment is important because of significant advances in the field of pediatric oncology. To date, the majority of research has been behavioral or psychosocial in nature. It could be argued that a more holistic perspective that includes psychological, sociocultural, and biological dimensions would advance knowledge about individual and family responses to the experience of childhood cancer. Biobehavioral research refers to investigations that link behavioral and biological underpinnings in specific areas of science. The purpose of this article is to review research in two broad areas that could benefit from a biobehavioral perspective-psychosocial functioning/behavioral adjustment, and CNS treatment outcomes. Studies that include biological measures are highlighted. Advantages, challenges, and strategies for advancing biobehavioral research in childhood cancer are proposed.