Profiles and predictors of resilient functioning in youths with pediatric cancer history

Abstract

Objective

To identify and predict resilient functioning over time among youths with pediatric cancer experience (YPCE).

Design

YPCE aged 8–17 years (N = 231) were followed prospectively for 3 years. Their psychosocial adjustment was assessed using self-report and parent-report at 1 year (T2) and 3 years (T3) post-baseline.

Methods

Latent profile analysis identified subgroups of YPCE with different patterns of adjustment over time. Self-reported factors from baseline and T2 were examined as predictors of subgroup membership.

Findings

Three subgroups of youths were found. Two exhibited average (52.5% of the sample) to better-than-average (41.3%) functioning. One subgroup (6.2%) exhibited subclinical but at-risk range of adjustment. Low optimism and low connectedness to parents and school predicted membership in this group.

Conclusions

Most YPCE exhibit resilient functioning across time. However, approximately 6% report persistent maladjustment.

Implications

Most YPCE are well-adjusted, but those with low optimism and poor connection to parents or school may require monitoring for psychosocial difficulties.

Keywords:

• Adjustment
• adolescent/young adult
• latent profile analysis
• longitudinal
• pediatric
• resilience
• survivorship

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by grants from the National Institutes of Health (grant number R01 CA136782) awarded to Phipps; the American Lebanese-Syrian Associated Charities (ALSAC).