The Impact of Breast Cancer on Adolescent Function
Abstract
The primary aim of this study was to test a theoretically derived predictive model of adolescent functioning to maternal breast cancer. Standardized questionnaires with well-established validity and reliability were used to measure 6 theoretical concepts in the model and were obtained from 222 study participants, including mothers recently diagnosed with breast cancer, their spouse, and their adolescent child. Results from tests of the theoretical model revealed that the adolescent was deleteriously impacted under two conditions: when the mother's mood was more depressive or when there was heightened tension between the parents. Both heightened marital tension and maternal depressed mood deleteriously affected adolescents' self-esteem. However, the quality of parenting was a protective factor that significantly improved children's self-esteem and enhanced their behavioral-emotional functioning. Results argue for programs and services to help both the ill and non-ill parent sustain quality parenting of the adolescent during the first year of diagnosis, treatment, and early recovery from the mother's breast cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA475734
Entities
People
- Frances M. Lewis
Organizations
- University of Washington