So you survived cancer, now what?: Development of an interactive, technology-based psychoeducational intervention for pediatric cancer survivors

Few psychological interventions exist that target pediatric cancer survivors and utilize technology. For a cancer survivor the conclusion of treatment may elicit psychological distress related to feelings of vulnerability and anxiety. In addition, they may develop late-medical and -neurocognitive sequelae associated with their previous cancer treatment. It is therefore important for both children who are in cancer remission and their parents to understand the biopsychosocial factors that may arise in survivorship, to encourage a healthy physical and emotional lifestyle beyond initial treatment. Yet, medical professionals are busy with caring for the child's health needs and the psychology team may not have the resources to meet the needs of each child. Hypothesis: A psychoeducational CD intervention will be evaluated as a feasible and effective model for disseminating information to pediatric cancer survivors. Methods: We developed a prototype CD for survivors between 7-12 years. Using a cartoon format, the first module discusses physical health and the importance of survivorship medical care. The second module provides an introduction to problem solving and coping strategies grounded in the cognitive-behavioral therapy model. Health professionals will evaluate the video for content, utility, and feasibility (within their practice). Pediatric cancer survivors and their caregivers will evaluate the prototype for conceptual understanding, ease of use, and aesthetics. Implications: The information obtained from both professionals and survivors will be utilized in the development of an expanded version of the intervention, which will improve access to information about the medical and psychological factors involved in pediatric cancer survivorship.