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The Relationship Between Spirituality and the Developing Brain: A Framework for Pediatric Oncology
Rachel S Werk1, David M Steinhorn2, Andrew Newberg3
1Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2200 Children's Way, Nashville, TN, 8161 DOT37232-9760, USA. Rachel.werk@vumc.org.
Childhood cancer treatments can impact brain development. This study explores how oncological diseases affect spiritual development in children, suggesting integrated care to improve outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience and Developmental Psychology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Spirituality and Medicine
Background:
- Childhood development (motor, language, social, spiritual) is rooted in early brain processes.
- Cancer, chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can affect early brain development, as evidenced by neuroimaging and developmental assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose that spiritual development may be significantly impacted in children with oncological diseases affecting brain processes.
- To explore the connection between science, spirituality, and medicine in addressing spiritual needs of pediatric cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing neuroimaging and developmental assessment data.
- Conceptual framework linking oncological disease, brain processes, and spiritual development.
Main Results:
- Hypothesizes a substantial impact of oncological diseases on spiritual development in children.
- Suggests that addressing spiritual needs can mitigate emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Integrating spiritual care into pediatric oncology can improve patient outcomes.
- A holistic approach considering spiritual well-being is crucial for children coping with cancer.
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