Adolescents with cancer felt supported by connecting with others in similar circumstances through a teen support group.

摘要

The study by Cassano etal offers insight into the perceptions and needs of teens with cancer with respect to support groups. The most striking finding related to doing normal activities. Other studies allude to the drive for normalcy in patients with cancer, but none have focused on the effect of planned activities as part of support group work nor identified this specific aspect as essential to feeling normal.' 2 The title of the article, "Talking with others who 'just know,'" states the most important effect of the teen support group. Healthcare professionals "know" cancer through a different lens; parents know cancer as a source of fear for their child; and siblings understand it in terms of diverted attention and protection of their sibling. Peers with cancer "just know" the issues, even when cancers differ. Perceptions of understanding and support of usual friendship networks differed by sex, with young men perceiving more and appropriate support from friends than young women. Participants also commented on the need to "give back" to the support group when they were no longer on treatment.