Exploring peer loss and survivor guilt among young adult survivors of childhood cancer.

BACKGROUND

There are nearly 500,000 childhood cancer survivors in the United States, and emerging evidence suggests at least 25% of these survivors have lost a peer to cancer. The current study investigated the nature of peer loss in a sample of young adult survivors of childhood cancer.

METHODS

Survivors (n = 63) completed an online survey including measures of peer loss, survivor guilt (Interpersonal Guilt Questionnaire) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS; Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5). Relations between peer loss, survivor guilt, and PTSS were assessed.

RESULTS

Survivor guilt and PTSS were significantly correlated. Survivor guilt accounted for 6% of variance in PTSS beyond variance explained by other risk factors. Peer loss was not significantly correlated with survivor guilt or posttraumatic stress symptoms.

DISCUSSION: Survivor guilt is a significant concern for childhood cancer survivors. Increased screening and intervention are warranted to reduce the impact of survivor guilt and related symptoms. Further research is needed to clarify the impact of peer loss on childhood cancer survivors given its lack of association with survivor guilt or PTSS.