Factors Influencing Posttraumatic Growth Among Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors: A Scoping Review

Cancer experiences are characterized by significant stress and life disruption. In childhood and adolescent cancer survivors, these experiences are often traumatic and accompanied by psychosocial burdens. However, increasing attention has recently been directed toward positive psychological changes following cancer, known as posttraumatic growth (PTG). Research on PTG in childhood and adolescent cancer survivors remains an emerging field. No study has comprehensively reviewed the factors influencing PTG in this population. In this scoping review, we systematically investigated theories and measures related to PTG among childhood and adolescent cancer survivors and evaluated factors influencing PTG in this group. This review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews and addressed the following questions: (1) What factors influence PTG levels among childhood and adolescent cancer survivors?, (2) Do these factors promote or inhibit PTG?, and (3) Which tools have been used to measure PTG among childhood and adolescent cancer survivors? The data sources included MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycINFO, and ProQuest. Studies were mapped based on their characteristics, design, participant population, measurement tools, and key findings. A peer-reviewed search strategy developed by the university's Life Sciences Librarian identified 1,715 studies, of which 44 met the eligibility criteria. The extracted factors were classified into six categories: cancer-related, personal, cognitive processing, social and interpersonal, coping, and psychological health and outcome-related factors. Qualitative research frequently identified social and interpersonal factors, suggesting an association between PTG and relationships with others. However, quantitative research primarily assessed the relationship between PTG and cancer-related as well as personal factors. Although social and interpersonal factors were also examined, the results varied depending on the PTG assessment scale. To advance our understanding of the subject, further research is warranted using the PTG Inventory, a PTG measurement tool validated across various fields.