Children and Young People’s Experiences of the Transition Period from On- to Off-treatment for Childhood Cancer

Abstract

The transition period from on- to off-treatment has been described as one of the major stressors faced by children and young people with cancer. Few UK studies, however, have explored this stressful period with a particular focus on identity. A grounded theory study of 9 children and young people going through this transition period was conducted. Findings revealed the core theme of ‘stepping into the unknown’ and reflected the continued process of role and identity changes that participants faced. During treatment participants adopted a ‘cancer identity role’, which was managed by ‘adapting’ and ‘increasing support’. After treatment they adopted a ‘survivor identity role’. Finally, an integration of their pre-cancer identity, ‘cancer identity role’ and ‘survivor identity role’ took place, forming a ‘new identity’, however this pathway appears to be age and condition dependent. Understanding of this process may help to prepare patients for the impact and challenges that finishing treatment may pose.