Why do children with cancer withdraw from social interactions? A qualitative study using the COM-B model

Guided by the COM-B model ("capability," "opportunity," "motivation," and "behavior"), this study explores the factors and potential mechanisms of social withdrawal in children with cancer.

The illness experiences shared by families of children with cancer on the internet provided a unique opportunity for this study. An interdisciplinary research team was formed, and a hybrid thematic analysis was conducted to examine 41 online illness narratives describing the experiences of children (≤ 18 years old) diagnosed with cancer.

This study identified seven themes: (1) Capability: physical problem and self-acceptance; (2) Motivation: stigma and self-esteem; (3) Opportunity: interpersonal interaction, parental parenting style, and social support. Analysis revealed that stigma indirectly influences social withdrawal through self-esteem; physical problem indirectly influences social withdrawal by affecting interpersonal interaction; and parental parenting style and social support further influence children's social withdrawal behaviors by affecting self-acceptance.

This study applied the COM-B model to pediatric oncology, revealing the multifaceted causes of social withdrawal in children with cancer. It highlights the need, beyond physical recovery, to foster psychological acceptance, build motivation, and expand social opportunities. Examples include integrated physical-social interventions, positive parenting, enhanced self-worth, and strengthened disease awareness and support networks to encourage active social engagement.

The findings are derived from authentic interview texts of children with cancer or their caregivers, providing practical reference value. This deepens understanding of the causes of social withdrawal in cancer survivors and informs more effective strategies to support their social reintegration.