Date of Award

2010

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Program

Health and Rehabilitation Sciences

Supervisor

Dr. Angela Mandich

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the processes survivors of childhood cancer go through with regard to their quality of life (QOL), how they define

QOL, and what factors facilitate and hinder good QOL. Eight survivors participated in semi-structured interviews. Strauss and Corbin's (1990) grounded theory method was used to code and analyze the data.

The core category that emerged was the process of “Managing Impacts and Effects”, which took place when the participants experienced lasting impacts and/or an affected life. This was carried out using three strategies: adopting a positive outlook, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking others. Resources such as community, relationships, and knowledge influenced this process. The result was life enjoyment, or good QOL. The findings of this study provide an understanding of the processes related to QOL of childhood cancer survivors, and have potential implications for survivors, service providers, and future research

Share

COinS
 
 

To view the content in your browser, please download Adobe Reader or, alternately,
you may Download the file to your hard drive.

NOTE: The latest versions of Adobe Reader do not support viewing PDF files within Firefox on Mac OS and if you are using a modern (Intel) Mac, there is no official plugin for viewing PDF files within the browser window.