Supportive and psychosocial peer-group interventions for children and adolescents of parents with cancer: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective: Children and adolescents are highly affected by their parents` cancer disease. This review aims to summarize peer-group interventions for children and adolescents of cancer patients, where those affected have the opportunity to exchange and normalize their feelings among equals.

Methods: A systematic review searching four different databases (MEDLINE, PsycInfo, CINAHL and Web of Science) was conducted. We included studies investigating psychosocial peer-group interventions for offspring of cancer patients. A narrative synthesis summarised the characteristics of the interventions and the findings on effects and evaluation.

Results: Ten articles on seven different peer-group interventions were analysed. Research designs and intervention concepts were heterogeneous. Overall, high acceptance, feasibility and positive effects of peer-group support were reported. Significant effects were found in six studies, e.g. in relation to psychological well-being, quality of life and coping skills.

Conclusion: Peer-group interventions are an accepted and helpful form of support. Providing children and adolescents of cancer patients for example with psychoeducation, community and coping strategies, thereby impacting on psychological well-being.

Practice implications: For comprehensive care, it seems to be important to offer support throughout the parent's cancer journey and to offer support flexibly as needed through group services as well as individual sessions.

Keywords: Oncology; Parental cancer; Peer-group; Psychosocial support; psycho-oncology.