Temperament and social behavior in pediatric brain tumor survivors and comparison peers

The contribution of cognitive disengagement syndrome symptoms to depressive symptoms among pediatric brain tumor survivors

OBJECTIVE

Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) are at risk for neurocognitive late effects that can resemble symptoms of cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS). In the current study, we compared the CDS symptoms of PBTS to those of healthy comparison classmates (CC) and examined whether CDS might explain group differences in depressive symptoms. We also explored whether CDS symptoms were associated with engagement-based coping strategies and stress responses, thereby testing one mechanism by which CDS could lead to affective difficulties.

METHODS

Data were from a larger, multisite study examining the psychosocial impact of pediatric brain tumors on survivors (ages 8-15; 1- to 5-year post-treatment) and their families. PBTS (n = 68) and CC (n = 64) were matched on age and sex and reported depressive symptoms, coping strategies, and stress responses during a home-based assessment. Caregivers reported child CDS symptoms. Analyses used multiple regression with post hoc bootstrapping to test indirect effects.

RESULTS

CDS symptoms were elevated in PBTS compared to CC (d = 0.49, p = .005), and elevated CDS symptoms partially explained higher depressive symptoms for PBTS. Exploratory serial mediation models suggested that coping strategies and stress responses did not account for the relationship between CDS and depressive symptoms. Alternative mechanisms to explain the association between CDS and depressive symptoms are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

CDS may be a relevant framework to understand why some PBTS are at risk for depressive symptoms. Although additional research is needed, clinicians should consider screening for CDS symptoms to assess risk for depressive symptoms in survivorship.

Full and Partial Facial Affect Recognition in Pediatric Brain Tumour Survivors and Typically Developing Children Following COVID-19 Pandemic

Affect recognition has emerged as a potential mechanism underlying the social competence challenges experienced by pediatric brain tumour survivors (PBTSs). However, many social interactions were altered during the pandemic, with the widespread use of masking potentially impacting affect recognition abilities. Here, we examine affect recognition in PBTSs and typically developing youth (TD) after the onset of the global pandemic. Twenty-three PBTSs and 24 TD between 8 and 16 years old were recruited and completed two performance-based affect recognition tasks (full and partial facial features) and a self-reported questionnaire on mask exposure in their social interactions. Their parents completed parent proxy questionnaires on their child's social adjustment and sociodemographics. The scores between the PBTSs and TD did not differ significantly in full (t(45) = 1.33, p = 0.19, d = 0.39, 95% CI [-0.69, 3.40]) or partial (t(37.36) = 1.56, p = 0.13, d = 0.46, 95% CI [-0.47, 3.60]) affect recognition, suggesting similar affect recognition between the two groups. These skills were also not significantly correlated with social adjustment or mask exposure (p > 0.05). However, the combined sample had significantly better scores in affect recognition when exposed to partial facial cues versus full. Additionally, participants obtained lower scores on a measure of full facial affect recognition and higher scores on a measure of partial affect recognition compared to pre-pandemic data. The pandemic may have influenced affect recognition across youth, underscoring the importance of further research into its lasting impact on the social competence of youth.

Social impairment in survivors of pediatric brain tumors via reduced social attention and emotion-specific facial expression recognition

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Survivors of pediatric brain tumors (SPBT) experience significant social challenges, including fewer friends and greater isolation than peers. Difficulties in face processing and visual social attention have been implicated in these outcomes. This study evaluated facial expression recognition (FER), social attention, and their associations with social impairments in SPBT.

METHODS

SPBT (N = 54; ages 7-16) at least 2 years post treatment completed a measure of FER, while parents completed measures of social impairment. A subset (N = 30) completed a social attention assessment that recorded eye gaze patterns while watching videos depicting pairs of children engaged in joint play. Social Prioritization scores were calculated, with higher scores indicating more face looking. Correlations and regression analyses evaluated associations between variables, while a path analysis modeling tool (PROCESS) evaluated the indirect effects of Social Prioritization on social impairments through emotion-specific FER.

RESULTS

Poorer recognition of angry and sad facial expressions was significantly correlated with greater social impairment. Social Prioritization was positively correlated with angry FER but no other emotions. Social Prioritization had significant indirect effects on social impairments through angry FER.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest interventions aimed at improving recognition of specific emotions may mitigate social impairments in SPBT. Further, reduced social attention (i.e., diminished face looking) could be a factor in reduced face processing ability, which may result in social impairments. Longitudinal research is needed to elucidate temporal associations between social attention, face processing, and social impairments.

Individual patterns of problems with participation, activity, body function and environment in everyday life for children who completed brain tumor treatment

PURPOSE

The study purpose was to, with the help of ICF and the CPS model, describe and explain patterns of co-occurring problems with participation in everyday life activities, body functioning and environment for children who completed brain tumor treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Hospital, habilitation and school records for nine children (5-11 yrs.) diagnosed with brain tumor, were retrospectively reviewed for everyday problems after treatment completion. These problems were linked to ICF codes. Median code distribution within ICF constructs participation, body function, body structure, activity, and environment were calculated to generate typical (close to median) and atypical (distant from median) patterns of problems on individual and group levels. Two children were in-depth analyzed with collaborative problem-solving (CPS) model to identify participation problems and plausible explanations.

RESULTS

In total, 4543 ICF linked codes revealed similarities and differences between individuals. The selected child-cases displayed educational challenges and peer-relational problems. The ICF codes related to activity, body function and environment revealed plausible explanations for the children's documented problems with participation in everyday life.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of ICF and CPS can provide a comprehensive view of the child's problems and guide development of participation in everyday life-focused interventions for children treated for brain tumors.Implications for rehabilitationCare should be guided by interventions and support directed at individual children and their everyday life.The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework can support identification of the individual child's patterns of problems and how these affects the child's everyday life.It is recommended to start by identifying participation problems when using ICF to identify and describe problems in children's natural settings.The collaborative problem-solving model can guide healthcare, habilitation and school services when identifying and acting on typical and atypical problem patterns experienced by these children.

Social cognition and adjustment in adult survivors of pediatric central nervous system tumors

BACKGROUND

Survivors of pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors are at risk for neurocognitive and social difficulties throughout childhood. This study characterized social cognition (perception and reasoning from social cues) and adjustment in adulthood.

METHODS

A total of 81 adult survivors of pediatric CNS tumors (51% female; mean [SD] age, 28.0 [5.8] years), were recruited across four groups: (1) no radiation therapy (RT) [n = 21], (2) infratentorial (IT) tumors + focal RT [n = 20], (3) IT tumors + craniospinal irradiation [n = 20], and (4) supratentorial tumors + focal RT [n = 20]. Prevalence of social cognitive and adjustment impairments was compared to test norms. Multivariable models examined clinical and neurocognitive predictors of social cognition and its impact on functional outcomes.

RESULTS

Survivors demonstrated elevated risk of severe social cognitive impairments (social perception Morbidity Ratio [95% CI] 5.70 [3.46-9.20]), but self-reported few social adjustment problems. Survivors of IT tumors treated with craniospinal irradiation performed nearly 1 SD worse than survivors treated without RT on multiple measures of social cognition (e.g., social perception: β = -0.89, p = .004). Impaired executive functioning and nonverbal reasoning were associated with worse social cognitive performance (e.g., social perception: β = -0.75, p < .001; β = -0.84, p < .001, respectively). Better social perception was associated with higher odds of attaining full-time employment (odds ratio, 1.52 [1.17-1.97]) and at least some college education (odds ratio, 1.39 [1.11-1.74]).

CONCLUSIONS

Adult survivors of CNS tumors are at elevated risk of severely impaired social cognition, but do not perceive social adjustment difficulties. Better understanding of potential mechanisms underlying social cognitive deficits may inform intervention targets to promote better functional outcomes for at-risk survivors.

Emotional Well-Being of Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors and Comparison Peers: Perspectives From Children and Their Parents

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the emotional well-being of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) from the perspective of children's self-reports and parents' reports relative to matched comparison peers (COMP) and their parents. It was hypothesized that PBTS would self-report more depression symptoms, loneliness, and lower self-concept than COMP. We also hypothesized that mothers and fathers of PBTS would report more internalizing symptoms and lower total competence for their children. Age and sex effects were examined in exploratory analyses.

METHODS

Families of 187 PBTS and 186 COMP participated across 5 sites. Eligible children in the PBTS group were 8-15 years of age and 1-5 years post-treatment for a primary intracranial tumor without progressive disease. COMP were classmates matched for sex, race, and age.

RESULTS

PBTS self-reported lower scholastic, athletic, and social competence, but not more depression, loneliness, or lower global self-worth than COMP. Parents of PBTS reported more internalizing symptoms and lower total competence than parents of COMP. With few exceptions, group differences did not vary as a function of child age and sex.

CONCLUSION

PBTS reported diminished self-concept in scholastic, athletic, and social domains, while their parents reported broader challenges with internalizing symptoms and total competence. Discrepancies between self-report and parent report require further study to inform targeted interventions for PBTS. Screening survivors for emotional challenges in follow-up clinic or in school setting may help with the allocation of psychosocial support and services for PBTS and their families.

Reduced Fusiform Gyrus Activation During Face Processing in Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors

OBJECTIVE

The neural mechanisms contributing to the social problems of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) are unknown. Face processing is important to social communication, social behavior, and peer acceptance. Research with other populations with social difficulties, namely autism spectrum disorder, suggests atypical brain activation in areas important for face processing. This case-controlled functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study compared brain activation during face processing in PBTS and typically developing (TD) youth.

METHODS

Participants included 36 age-, gender-, and IQ-matched youth (N = 18 per group). PBTS were at least 5 years from diagnosis and 2 years from the completion of tumor therapy. fMRI data were acquired during a face identity task and a control condition. Groups were compared on activation magnitude within the fusiform gyrus for the faces condition compared to the control condition. Correlational analyses evaluated associations between neuroimaging metrics and indices of social behavior for PBTS participants.

RESULTS

Both groups demonstrated face-specific activation within the social brain for the faces condition compared to the control condition. PBTS showed significantly decreased activation for faces in the medial portions of the fusiform gyrus bilaterally compared to TD youth, ps ≤ .004. Higher peak activity in the left fusiform gyrus was associated with better socialization (r = .53, p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers initial evidence of atypical activation in a key face processing area in PBTS. Such atypical activation may underlie some of the social difficulties of PBTS. Social cognitive neuroscience methodologies may elucidate the neurobiological bases for PBTS social behavior.

Neurobehavioral Impairment in Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors: A Meta-Analysis

Purpose: The neurocognitive outcomes of pediatric brain tumor survivors have been extensively studied but the risk and predictors for neurobehavioral impairment are less clearly defined. We systematically analyzed the rates of emotional, psychosocial, and attention problems in pediatric brain tumor survivors. Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane were searched for articles published between January 2012 to April 2022. Eligible studies reported neurobehavioral outcomes for PBTS aged 2 to <23 years with a brain tumor diagnosis before 18 years of age. A random-effect meta-analysis was performed in R. Results: The search yielded 1187 unique publications, of which 50 were included in the quantitative analysis. The estimated risk of having emotional, psychosocial, and attention problems were 15% (95%CI 10−20%), 12% (95%CI 9−16%), and 12% (95%CI 9−16%), respectively. PBTS were more likely to have emotional difficulties (Hedge’s g = 0.43 [95%CI 0.34−0.52]), psychosocial problems (Hedge’s g = 0.46 [95%CI 0.33−0.58]), and attention problems (Hedge’s g = 0.48 [95%CI 0.34−0.63]) compared to normal/healthy control subjects. There was no significant difference in the rates of neurobehavioral impairment between children with and without history of cranial radiotherapy. Conclusions: PBTS are at elevated risk of neurobehavioral impairment. Neurobehavioral monitoring should be considered as the standard of care for PBTS.

Psychosocial functioning of caregivers of pediatric brain tumor survivors

BACKGROUND

Assessment of caregiver needs is a recommended standard of care in pediatric oncology. Caregivers of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) are a subgroup that may be at highest psychosocial risk. This study examined psychosocial functioning of caregivers of PBTS in comparison to caregivers of youth without cancer history. We hypothesized that caregivers of PBTS would exhibit more psychological symptoms, higher caregiver burden, and lower perceptions of social support than caregivers of comparison youth.

PROCEDURE

As part of a five-site study, we utilized a matched sample design to evaluate psychosocial functioning of 301 caregivers of 189 PBTS (ages 8-15) who were 1-5 years post treatment, and 286 caregivers of 187 comparison youth matched for sex, race, and age. Caregivers completed measures of psychological symptoms, caregiver burden, and perceptions of social support. Repeated measures mixed models compared outcomes between groups and examined differences based on caregiver sex. Socioeconomic status (SES) was examined as a moderator of significant main effects.

RESULTS

Caregivers of PBTS reported similar levels of psychological symptoms to caregivers of comparison youth. Mothers of PBTS mothers reported higher caregiver burden and lower perceptions of social support than mothers of comparison youth. Low SES exacerbated group differences in caregiver burden.

CONCLUSIONS

Mothers of PBTS may have more caregiving responsibilities and perceive less social support, but reported similar levels of psychological symptoms to comparison mothers; fathers of PBTS were similar to comparison fathers. The mechanisms involved in this complex psychosocial dynamic require further investigation.

White matter hyperintensities relate to executive dysfunction, apathy, but not disinhibition in long-term adult survivors of pediatric cerebellar tumor

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Pediatric brain tumor survivors have more executive dysfunction than controls.

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White matter hyperintensities are positively associated with executive dysfunction.

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White matter hyperintensities are positively associated with apathy.

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Multivariate regression supports white matter hyperintensity associations.

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Survivors appear to drive white matter hyperintensities associations.

White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) have been related to executive dysfunction, apathy and disinhibition in a wide range of neurological populations. However, this relationship has not been examined in survivors of pediatric brain tumor. The goal of this study was to investigate how executive dysfunction, apathy, and disinhibition relate to WMHs in 31 long-term survivors of pediatric cerebellar brain tumor and 58 controls, using informant-report data from the Frontal Systems Behavior Scale. Total WMH volume was quantified using the Lesion Growth Algorithm. Further, periventricular, and subcortical volumes were identified based on proximity to custom ventricle masks generated in FSL. A ratio of WMH volume to whole brain volume was used to obtain normalized WMH volumes. Additionally, a multivariate regression analysis was performed. On average, informant-report scores were within normal limits and only executive dysfunction was significantly higher in survivors compared to controls (t(47.9) = -2.4, p=.023). Informants reported clinically significant levels of apathy in 32.3% of survivors. Informants also reported clinically significant executive dysfunction in 19.4 % of survivors and clinically significant disinhibition in, again, 19.4 % of survivors. Increased volume of WMHs was positively correlated with executive dysfunction (r = 0.33, p = 0.02) and apathy (r = 0.23, p = .04). Similarly, multivariate regression demonstrated correlations with executive dysfunction (p=.05, FDR corrected) and apathy (p=.05, FDR corrected). Exploratory analysis demonstrated an interaction wherein the relationship between total WMHs and executive dysfunction and apathy depends on whether the participant was a survivor. The current findings indicate that increased WMH volumes are associated with higher ratings of apathy and executive dysfunction, and that these results are likely unique to cerebellar brain tumor survivors. WMH burden may serve as a useful marker to identify survivors at risk of executive dysfunction or increased apathy.

Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors' Understanding of Friendships: A Qualitative Analysis of ADOS-2 Interview Responses

BACKGROUND

Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) are at risk of experiencing social competence challenges, but only a limited number of studies have used a qualitative approach to understand their social relationships. We examined PBTS responses to social interview questions within the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd edition (ADOS-2), which includes questions related to their understanding of their own relationships, as well as the construct of friendship more generally.

METHODS

Twenty-four PBTS (ages 9-17 years; M = 14.2 years from diagnosis; 50% male; 42% received radiation treatment) completed the ADOS-2. ADOS-2 social interview responses were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Themes were derived using an inductive thematic analysis approach.

RESULTS

PBTS reported that they considered trust, acceptance, respect, emotional support, and spending time together to be important aspects of friendships in general. When describing their own social relationships, some PBTS noted a lack of intimacy or closeness, spending time with their friends almost exclusively at school, with structured activities outside of school being an additional basis for friendship. Challenges to their social relationships included loneliness and reliance on family for social support, experiences of teasing and bullying, social skills deficits, and lack of insight into social situations.

CONCLUSION

Although PBTS were able to acknowledge many important qualities of friendships in general (e.g., trust, emotional support), these were not necessarily reported in their own friendships. PBTS also appeared to have difficulty identifying whether someone was their friend. These findings offer potential opportunities for supporting PBTS in achieving friendships consistent with their conception of this important relationship.

Educational Pain Points for Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors: Review of Risks and Remedies

Evolving treatment paradigms have led to increased survival rates for children diagnosed with a brain tumor, and this has increasingly shifted clinical and research focus to morbidity and quality of life among survivors. Among unfavorable outcomes, survivors of pediatric brain tumors are at risk for academic failure and low educational attainment, which may then contribute to lower health related quality of life, lower income and vocational status, and a greater likelihood of dependence on others in adulthood. Several specific risk factors for lower educational performance and attainment have been investigated. These are typically examined in isolation from one another which clouds understanding of the full range and potential interplay of contributors to educational difficulties. This review integrates and summarizes what is known about the direct and indirect barriers to educational success and performance (i.e., educational pain points) to enhance clinician knowledge of factors to consider when working with pediatric brain tumor survivors. Specific barriers to educational success include neurocognitive difficulties, school absences, psychosocial challenges, challenges to knowledge and communication, and physical and sensory difficulties. Finally, we discuss the current state of educational interventions and supports and offer recommendations for future research to improve educational outcomes for pediatric brain tumor survivors.

Face Processing and Social Functioning in Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors

OBJECTIVE

Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) experience deficits in social functioning. Facial expression and identity recognition are key components of social information processing and are widely studied as an index of social difficulties in youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions. This study evaluated facial expression and identity recognition among PBTS, youth with ASD, and typically developing (TD) youth, and the associations between these face processing skills and social impairments.

METHODS

PBTS (N = 54; ages 7-16) who completed treatment at least 2 years prior were matched with TD (N = 43) youth and youth with ASD (N = 55) based on sex and IQ. Parents completed a measure of social impairments and youth completed a measure of facial expression and identity recognition.

RESULTS

Groups significantly differed on social impairments (p < .001), with youth with ASD scoring highest followed by PBTS and lastly TD youth. Youth with ASD performed significantly worse on the two measures of facial processing, while TD youth and PBTS were not statistically different. The association of facial expression recognition and social impairments was moderated by group, such that PBTS with higher levels of social impairment performed worse on the expression task compared to TD and ASD groups (p < .01, η2 = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Variability in face processing may be uniquely important to the social challenges of PBTS compared to other neurodevelopmental populations. Future directions include prospectively examining associations between facial expression recognition and social difficulties in PBTS and face processing training as an intervention for PBTS.

"I'm With my People!": Perceived Benefits of Participation in a Group Social Skills Intervention for Children and Adolescent Survivors of Brain Tumors

BACKGROUND

Children and adolescent survivors of brain tumors may experience impairments in social competence.

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative randomized controlled substudy aimed to investigate the outcomes of a social skills intervention group by interviewing these children and adolescents and their caregivers following group participation.

INTERVENTIONS/METHODS

Children and adolescents were randomized to the Social Skills Intervention Program or the attention control group. Using purposive sampling, 12 patients (average age, 11.42 years) and 12 caregivers were interviewed following group participation. The Social Skills Intervention Program consists of eight 2-hour manualized sessions delivered weekly; each session was structured around a social skill (eg, making friends, bullying) through arts and crafts and cognitive-behavioral strategies. The sessions in the control group were structured around daily themes (eg, summer activities) doing arts and crafts. Interviews were analyzed using content analysis.

RESULTS

Themes unique to the intervention program included improved self-control and self-acceptance, reduced feelings of sadness, and improved problem solving. Themes common to both groups included group bonding over similar experiences, increased social confidence with peers and family, and reduced acting out.

CONCLUSIONS

This study uncovered additional unique intervention effects not captured by quantitative measures: improved self-control and problem solving and benefits of the group experience in general.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Findings support the need for group socialization opportunities for children with brain tumors. Nurses can promote socializing opportunities for children and adolescent survivors of brain tumors during and after medical treatment ends to prevent social competence deterioration.

The Influence of Early Childhood Temperament on Later Social-Emotional Functioning in Youth with Cancer

OBJECTIVE

One of the peak incidences of childhood cancer is during the early childhood years. This is also an important time for psychosocial and personality development, and it is well known that early childhood temperament influences later psychosocial functioning. However, this association has not been examined in young children with cancer.

METHODS

Parents of children with cancer (N = 39) and healthy comparisons (N = 35) completed an indicator of temperament (Children's Behavior Questionnaire) when children were young (Mage=4.99 ± 1.05 years). Five years later, parents and youth completed measures of psychosocial functioning (Mage=10.15 ± 1.10 years; Behavior Assessment Scale for Children, 2nd edition and Social Emotional Assets and Resilience Scale).

RESULTS

Parents of healthy comparisons reported that their children demonstrated greater surgency than youth with cancer; there were no differences in negative affect or effortful control. Children with cancer and healthy comparisons were rated similarly on measures of psychosocial functioning. Health status was not a significant predictor of later functioning, but socioeconomic status and temperament were. The influence of temperament was stronger for strengths-based functioning (e.g., social competence, adaptive functioning) versus distress (internalizing and externalizing problems).

CONCLUSIONS

Early childhood temperament is a strong predictor of later psychosocial functioning, regardless of health status. Findings highlight the need to consider temperament in the clinical assessment of psychosocial functioning in children with cancer. Additional research is needed to specifically assess how a diagnosis of cancer in early childhood influences temperament over time.

Friendships in Pediatric Brain Tumor Survivors and Non-Central Nervous System Tumor Survivors

OBJECTIVE

Brain tumors during childhood may disrupt the development and maintenance of friendships due to the impact of disease- and treatment-related factors on functioning. The goal of this study was to determine if children treated for either a brain tumor or a non-central nervous system (CNS) solid tumor could name a friend and to evaluate the social information processes associated with the ability to name a friend.

METHOD

Youth (ages 7-14) treated for either a brain tumor (n = 47; mean age = 10.51 years) or a non-CNS solid tumor (n = 34; mean age = 11.29) completed an assessment within 6 months of the conclusion of treatment that included asking participants to name a friend and completing measures of social information processing (SIP). Rates of self-reported friendship were compared between groups and correlates of being able to name a friend were evaluated.

RESULTS

Youth treated for a brain tumor (61.7%) were significantly less likely to name a friend compared with youth treated for a non-CNS solid tumor (85.3%). Diagnosis type (brain vs. non-CNS), relapse status, attribution style, and facial affect recognition were significant predictors of being able to name a friend or not in a logistic regression model.

CONCLUSIONS

Youth treated for a brain tumor and those who experienced a disease relapse are at risk for impairments in friendships; difficulties with SIP may increase this risk. Targeted screening and intervention efforts for children diagnosed with brain tumors and those who have relapsed could address difficulties with peers.

PROMIS Peer Relationships Short Form: How Well Does Self-Report Correlate With Data From Peers?

Objective

To examine the psychometric properties of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) peer relationships short form (PR-SF), including association with peer-reported friendships, likeability, and social reputation.

Method

203 children (Mage = 10.12 years, SD = 2.37, range = 6-14) in Grades 1-8 completed the 8-item PR-SF and friendship nominations, like ratings, and social reputation measures about their peers during 2 classroom visits approximately 4 months apart, as part of a larger study. A confirmatory factor analysis, followed by an exploratory factor analysis, was conducted to examine the factor structure of the PR-SF. Spearman correlations between the PR-SF and peer-reported outcomes evaluated construct validity.

Results

For the PR-SF, a 2-factor solution demonstrated better fit than a 1-factor solution. The 2 factors appear to assess friendship quality (3 items) and peer acceptance (5 items). Reliability was marginal for the friendship quality factor (.66) but adequate for the acceptance factor (.85); stability was .34 for the PR-SF over 4 months. The PR-SF (8 items) and acceptance factor (5 items) both had modest but significant correlations with measures of friendship (rs = .25-.27), likeability (rs = .21-.22), and social reputation (rs = .29-.44).

Conclusions

The PR-SF appears to be measuring two distinct aspects of social functioning. The 5-item peer acceptance scale is modestly associated with peer-reported friendship, likeability, and social reputation. Although not a replacement for peer-reported outcomes, the PR-SF is a promising patient-reported outcome for peer relationships in youth.

Are we friends? Best friend nominations in pediatric brain tumor survivors and associated factors

BACKGROUND

Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTSs) are at risk of impairments in social competence. Limited information is available regarding nominations and reciprocated nominations of PBTSs as best friends and factors which may predict these.

PROCEDURE

Caregivers of children (n = 32) aged 8-16 (38% low-grade glioma, 34% medulloblastoma, 28% other) completed ratings of child adjustment at baseline (T1) and PBTSs and classmates completed the Three Best Friends measure approximately 12 months later (T2). Sociometric data yielded ratings of best friend nominations and reciprocated best friend nominations.

RESULTS

Nominations of PBTSs as best friends were not significantly different than controls, but PBTSs had fewer reciprocated best friend nominations than controls. Approximately half of PBTSs in this study did not have any reciprocated best friend nominations and 25% were not nominated by any peer as a best friend. Greater symptoms of depression and lower social skills in PBTSs were associated with fewer nominations as a best friend by peers and a greater likelihood of no reciprocal best friend nominations. Greater difficulties in emotional control were associated with fewer nominations as a best friend by peers.

CONCLUSIONS

The discrepancy between reciprocated best friend nominations and best friend nominations highlights a need to attend to reciprocal friendships in PBTSs and further understand social information processes in this population. Longitudinal analyses illustrate the impact of emotional adjustment on PBTS friendships.

Using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) to measure symptom burden reported by patients with brain tumors

BACKGROUND

Children with brain tumors can experience symptom burden throughout their disease continuum. The aim of the study was to evaluate symptom burden reported by children with brain tumors and factors that potentially were associated with their symptoms.

METHODS

Data from 199 children with brain tumors aged 7-22 (mean age = 14 years; 52% males; 76% white) were analyzed. Symptom burden was assessed using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) via computerized adaptive testing (CAT)-anxiety, depression, fatigue, mobility, upper extremity function, peer relationship, and cognition. Patients and parents completed Symptom Distress Scales (SDS). Test statistics and ANOVA were used to evaluate relationships between PROMIS measures and potentially influential variables.

RESULTS

Significant results (P < 0.01) showing impact of symptom burden included: PROMIS measures correlated with SDSs reported by patients and parents on all comparisons. Fatigue, mobility, and upper extremity function were associated with Karnofsky functional performance status, number of treatment modalities (0-3), and time since last treatment (≤1 year, >1 year). Fatigue and cognition were associated with educational program (regular classroom without an individualized education plan vs those that had an individualized education plan); mobility and upper extremity function were associated with time since last radiation. Mobility, upper extremity function, and anxiety were associated with time since last chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant associations were found between PROMIS and SDS as well as clinical and demographic characteristics. Brief-yet-precise PROMIS CATs can be used to systematically assess symptom burden experienced by children with brain tumors.

Social adjustment of adolescent cancer patients transitioning off active treatment: A short-term prospective mixed methods study

BACKGROUND

Psychosocial follow-up in survivorship is a standard of care in pediatric oncology; however, little is known about patients' psychosocial functioning during the transition off active treatment, a unique time in the cancer journey. This study examined the social adjustment of adolescent cancer patients during this transition period, which has been understudied to date.

PROCEDURE

Participants were 21 patients (ages 12-18 years; age M = 14.71 years; 62% female, 81% White) with various cancer diagnoses. Patients and their parents completed the Social Competence subscale of the Youth Self-Report (YSR) and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), respectively, PedsQL Social Functioning subscale, and a semistructured interview 1-2 months prior to ending treatment (time 1) and 3-7 months after ending treatment (time 2).

RESULTS

YSR and CBCL social competence scores were within the normal range at both time points. PedsQL social functioning scores were more consistent with norms for pediatric cancer samples at time 1 and norms for healthy children at time 2, with self-reported scores significantly improving from time 1 to time 2. A subset of patients had elevated social concerns at time 1, a number that decreased by time 2. Interviews revealed both positive and negative themes related to peer relationships and support, quantity of friends, and socialization.

CONCLUSIONS

Most adolescent cancer patients are socially well adjusted as they transition off treatment, although a subset have elevated concerns. Interviews provide insight into complex social experiences not captured on questionnaires. Patients may benefit from screening and support during this unique time.

Executive functions and social skills in pediatric brain tumor survivors

Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTSs) may experience impairment in executive functions and social competence, but their interrelation is not well understood. This study aimed to address the specificity of this relationship. PBTSs (n = 91) were on average 11.21 years old, 5 years from diagnosis, and 48.4% female. One parent and PBTS completed the Social Skills Rating System (subscales: Cooperation, Assertiveness, Empathy, Self-Control, and Total), and parents also completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (General Executive Composite [GEC], Metacognition [MI], and Behavioral Regulation [BRI] indices) and the (Withdrawal scale). Based on proxy reports, more PBTSs had deficits in Cooperation, Assertiveness and Responsibility skills relative to normative data. MI was more consistently associated with parent reported social skills deficits than BRI. PBTSs reported fewer deficits in social skills relative to normative data across all scales; none of the correlations between PBTSs reported social skills and executive functions were significant. Time since diagnosis and proxy reported lower total social skills predicted greater withdrawal. These findings highlight the importance of assessing differential perspectives of PBTSs social competence, and that metacognitive strategies may bear particular importance for the social skills of PBTSs.

A Systematic Review Summarizing the State of Evidence on Bullying in Childhood Cancer Patients/Survivors

BACKGROUND

One in four school-aged children is bullied. However, the risk may be greater for childhood cancer patients/survivors (diagnosed <18 years), because of symptoms of the disease and treatment that may prejudice peers. While the serious consequences of bullying are well documented in the general population, bullying may have even greater impact in children with cancer due to the myriad of challenges associated with treatment and prolonged school absence.

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the state of evidence on bullying in childhood cancer patients/survivors; specifically, the rate and types of bullying experienced and the associated factors.

METHOD

We searched five electronic databases from inception to February 2018 for original research articles reporting on bullying in childhood cancer patients/survivors.

RESULTS

We identified 29 eligible articles, representing 1,078 patients/survivors ( M = 14.35 years). Self-reports from patients/survivors revealed a considerably higher rate of bullying (32.2%) compared with the general population (25%). Our review identified little information on the factors associated with bullying in patients/survivors. However, the bullying described tended to be verbal and was often related to the physical side effects of treatment, indicating that differences in appearance may prejudice peers. It was further suggested that educating the child's classmates about cancer may prevent bullying.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings confirm that bullying is a significant challenge for many childhood cancer patients/survivors. Additional studies are needed to identify factors that may influence the risk of bullying, which will inform the development of evidence-based interventions and guidelines to prevent bullying in childhood cancer patients/survivors.

The Relationship Between Pain Characteristics, Peer Difficulties, and Emotional Functioning Among Adolescents Seeking Treatment for Chronic Pain: A Test of Mediational Models

Objective

To evaluate patterns of relationships between pain characteristics, peer difficulties, and emotional functioning in a sample of adolescents seeking treatment for chronic pain.

Methods

Participants were 172 adolescents (age M = 14.88 years; 76% female, 88% White) with heterogeneous chronic pain disorders who completed measures of pain characteristics, peer difficulties, and emotional functioning before their new patient appointment in a pain management clinic. Direct and indirect relationships between variables were tested using path analysis.

Results

Adequate model fit was found for models that specified emotional functioning (anxiety and depression) as a mediator of the relationship between pain interference and peer difficulties. Conversely, poor fit was found for all models specifying peer difficulties as a mediator of the relationship between pain characteristics and emotional functioning.

Conclusions

Assessing and targeting depression and anxiety among youth with high pain interference may help prevent or improve peer difficulties.

Social adjustment and repressive adaptive style in survivors of pediatric cancer

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between repressive adaptive style and self-reports of social adjustment in survivors of pediatric cancer compared to their siblings. We hypothesized that there would be a greater proportion of repressors among survivors of pediatric cancer compared to siblings, and that repressive adaptive style would be significantly associated with more positive self-reports of social adjustment.

METHODS

We utilized a cross-sectional approach. Seventy-seven families participated. Survivors of pediatric cancer (n = 77, 48% male; 8-18 years of age) and one sibling (n = 50, 48% male; 8-18 years of age) completed measures assessing repressive adaptive style and social adjustment. As well, one parent from each family completed a socio-demographic questionnaire. Questionnaire packages were mailed to eligible families who agreed to participate, and were mailed back to investigators in a pre-addressed, pre-stamped envelope.

RESULTS

Chi-square analyses revealed there was no significant difference in the proportion of repressors among survivors and siblings. Social adjustment scores were subjected to a two (group: survivor, sibling) by two (repressor, nonrepressor) ANCOVA with gender and age as covariates. There was a significant main effect of repressive adaptive style (F = 5.69, p < .05, η² = 0.05) with a modest effect. Survivors and siblings with a repressive style reported significantly higher social adjustment scores (M = 106.91, SD = 11.69) compared to nonrepressors (M = 99.57, SD = 13.45).

CONCLUSIONS

Repressive adaptive style explains some of the variance in survivors and siblings' self-reports of social adjustment. Future research should aim to better understand the role of the repressive adaptive style in survivors and siblings of children with cancer.

Attending school after treatment for a brain tumor: Experiences of children and key figures

Reintegration into school is a milestone for childhood brain tumor survivors, as well as for their parents, teachers, and healthcare providers. We explored their experiences following the school re-entry by conducting semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis resulted in four main themes: “school performance,” “psychosocial well-being,” “support and approach,” and “communication and collaboration.” Children were pleased to return to school despite confrontation with adverse outcomes. Parents, teachers, and healthcare providers identified current and future concerns and challenges, as well as opportunities for academic and personal development. Their experiences highlight the importance of coordinated and systematic follow-up in close collaboration with healthcare providers.

Computerized Adaptive Testing in Pediatric Brain Tumor Clinics

CONTEXT

Monitoring of health-related quality of life and symptoms of patients with brain tumors is needed yet not always feasible. This is partially due to lack of brief-yet-precise assessments with minimal administration burden that are easily incorporated into clinics. Dynamic computerized adaptive testing (CAT) or static fixed-length short forms, derived from psychometrically sound item banks, are designed to fill this void.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the comparability of scores obtained from CATs and short forms.

METHODS

Patients (ages 7-22 years) were recruited from brain tumor clinics and completed Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System CATs and short forms (Fatigue, Mobility, Upper Extremity, Depressive Symptoms, Anxiety, and Peer Relationships). Pearson correlations, paired t-tests, and Cohen's d were used to evaluate the relationship, significant differences, and the magnitude of the difference between these two scores, respectively.

RESULTS

Data from 161 patients with brain tumors were analyzed. Patients completed each CAT within 2 minutes. Scores obtained from CATs and short forms were highly correlated (r = 0.95-0.98). Significantly different CAT vs. short-form scores were found on 4 (of 6) domains yet with negligible effect sizes (|d| < 0.09). These relationships varied across patients with different levels of reported symptoms, with the strongest association at the worst or best symptom scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the comparability of scores from CATs and short forms. Yet the agreement between these two varied across degrees of symptom severity which was a result of the ceiling effects of static short forms. We recommend CATs to enable individualized assessment for longitudinal monitoring.

Profiles of Executive Function Across Children with Distinct Brain Disorders: Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, and Brain Tumor

OBJECTIVES

This study examined whether children with distinct brain disorders show different profiles of strengths and weaknesses in executive functions, and differ from children without brain disorder.

METHODS

Participants were children with traumatic brain injury (N=82; 8-13 years of age), arterial ischemic stroke (N=36; 6-16 years of age), and brain tumor (N=74; 9-18 years of age), each with a corresponding matched comparison group consisting of children with orthopedic injury (N=61), asthma (N=15), and classmates without medical illness (N=68), respectively. Shifting, inhibition, and working memory were assessed, respectively, using three Test of Everyday Attention: Children's Version (TEA-Ch) subtests: Creature Counting, Walk-Don't-Walk, and Code Transmission. Comparison groups did not differ in TEA-Ch performance and were merged into a single control group. Profile analysis was used to examine group differences in TEA-Ch subtest scaled scores after controlling for maternal education and age.

RESULTS

As a whole, children with brain disorder performed more poorly than controls on measures of executive function. Relative to controls, the three brain injury groups showed significantly different profiles of executive functions. Importantly, post hoc tests revealed that performance on TEA-Ch subtests differed among the brain disorder groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that different childhood brain disorders result in distinct patterns of executive function deficits that differ from children without brain disorder. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed. (JINS, 2017, 23, 529-538).

Feasibility and efficacy of an extended trial of home-based working memory training for pediatric brain tumor survivors: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Impaired working memory appears to play a key role in some of the neurocognitive late effects of pediatric brain tumor treatments, including declines in intellectual and executive functioning. Recent studies of pediatric cancer survivors suggest Cogmed® Working Memory Training is effective at improving working memory, although pediatric brain tumor survivors may demonstrate a less robust response than children with other cancers. The current study sought to determine if an extended course of Cogmed (35 sessions) was both feasible and efficacious for brain tumor survivors and if improvements were observable in near-transfer and far-transfer working memory measures as well as parent rating scores at 6 months post-treatment.

METHODS

Twenty pediatric brain tumor survivors ages 8 to 18 years with working memory deficits completed 35 sessions of Cogmed. Assessments of working memory and academic skills were completed at baseline, completion of training, and 6-month follow-up and parents completed questionnaires at baseline and 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Participants showed significant improvements in working memory at training completion and 6-month follow-up and math achievement at 6-month follow-up. Parents reported executive functioning improvements at follow-up as compared with baseline. Participants' program-based working memory skills did not change significantly between sessions 25 and 35, suggesting that extended training did not provide additional benefit.

CONCLUSIONS

This study replicates and extends previous research by: (1) demonstrating that brain tumor survivors at high risk for neurocognitive late effects can complete and benefit from working memory training, (2) identifying a point of diminished returns on training time investment, and (3) demonstrating benefits 6 months post-intervention.

A randomized control intervention trial to improve social skills and quality of life in pediatric brain tumor survivors

BACKGROUND

To determine if a group social skills intervention program improves social competence and quality of life (QOL) in pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS).

METHODS

We conducted a randomized control trial in which PBTS (8-16 years old, off therapy for over 3 months) were allocated to receive social skills training (eg, cooperation, assertion, using social cognitive problem solving strategies, role playing, games, and arts and crafts) in 8 weekly 2-hour sessions, or an attention placebo control (games and arts and crafts only). Outcomes were self-reported, proxy-reported (caregiver), and teacher-reported using the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS), to measure social competence, and the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL4.0, generic) to measure QOL at baseline, after intervention, and at 6 months follow-up. At baseline, SSRS were stratified into low and high scores and included as a covariate in the analysis.

RESULTS

Compared to controls (n = 48), PBTS in the intervention group (n = 43) reported significantly better total and empathy SSRS scores, with improvements persisting at follow-up. The PBTS in the intervention group who had low scores at baseline reported the greatest improvements. Proxy and teacher reports showed no intervention effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Participating in group social skills intervention can improve self-reported social competence that persisted to follow up. The PBTS should be given the opportunity to participate in social skills groups to improve social competence.

Social competence in pediatric brain tumor survivors: breadth versus depth

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this article is to review the literature in the area of social competence in pediatric brain tumor survivors published in the last year.

RECENT FINDINGS

Research published over the past year examining the social competence of pediatric brain tumor survivors has seen the consistent application of a comprehensive conceptual framework that pertains specifically to children with brain disorders. Subsequent to the application of a comprehensive conceptual framework, more sophisticated research approaches have begun to advance our understanding of deficits among this population. Specifically, operationalization of social competence is evolving.

SUMMARY

Continued application of a conceptual framework and investigation into the components that comprise the framework will enhance the depth of our understanding of social competence deficits among this population. Research must continue to use innovative approaches to measuring social competence. Considerable gaps still exist with respect to identifying risk and resilience factors for social competence deficits.

Social Competence in Childhood Brain Tumor Survivors: Feasibility and Preliminary Outcomes of a Peer-Mediated Intervention

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary outcomes of a peer-mediated intervention to improve social competence of brain tumor survivors and classmates.

METHOD

Twelve childhood brain tumor survivors and 217 classroom peers in intervention (n = 8) or comparison (n = 4) classrooms completed measures of social acceptance and reputation at 2 time points in the year. The intervention (5-8 sessions over 4-6 weeks) taught peer leaders skills for engaging classmates. Individual and classroom outcomes were analyzed with analysis of covariance.

RESULTS

Recruitment rates of families of brain tumor survivors (81%) and schools (100%) were adequate. Peer leaders reported satisfaction with the intervention. Preliminary outcome data trended toward some benefit in increasing the number of friend nominations for survivors of brain tumors but no changes in other peer-reported metrics. Preliminary results also suggested some positive effects on classroom levels of victimization and rejection.

CONCLUSION

A peer-mediated intervention was acceptable to families of brain tumor survivors and feasible to implement in schools. Findings warrant a larger trial to evaluate improvements for children with brain tumors and their peers.

Academic Continuity and School Reentry Support as a Standard of Care in Pediatric Oncology

Clinicians agree that return to school after diagnosis promotes the positive adjustment of children and adolescents with cancer; however, the school reentry process can present challenges. The aim of this review was to critically evaluate the literature on school reentry support for youth with cancer. Seventeen publications were identified. School reentry services were well-received by families and educators; increased teacher and peer knowledge about childhood cancer; influenced peer and educator attitudes toward the patient; and improved communication and collaboration between patients/families, school, and the healthcare team. Evidence supports a strong recommendation for school reentry support for youth with cancer.

Providing Children and Adolescents Opportunities for Social Interaction as a Standard of Care in Pediatric Oncology

Experiences with peers constitute an important aspect of socialization, and children and adolescents with cancer may experience reduced social interaction due to treatment. A literature review was conducted to investigate the evidence to support a standard of care evaluating these experiences. Sixty-four articles were reviewed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Moderate quality of evidence suggest that social interaction can be beneficial to increase knowledge, decrease isolation, and improve adjustment and constitute an important, unmet need. The evidence supports a strong recommendation for youth with cancer to be provided opportunities for social interaction following a careful assessment of their unique characteristics and preferences.