Psychosocial interventions for siblings of children with cancer: A mixed methods systematic review

Abstract

Objective This review systematically (1) describes the characteristics of psychosocial interventions for siblings of children with cancer (SCC); (2) assesses the effect of the psychosocial interventions on SCCs' outcomes, and (3) describes SCCs' experiences and perceptions of these interventions. Methods Seven databases were systematically searched for relevant literature. We included both quantitative and qualitative studies of psychological interventions designed to improve the adjustment of SCCs. Results Our database searches yielded 19 publications. We found a range of psychosocial interventions being used among SCCs, with group interventions being the most common. The primary outcomes focused on the SCCs' depression, anxiety, and quality of life. Quantitative studies provided insufficient evidence to draw definitive conclusions about the interventions' effects, whereas the qualitative studies indicated that SCCs can derive benefits from these interventions, including an enhanced sense of belonging and bonding, improved family relationships, increased self‐awareness and confidence, increased cancer knowledge, and decreased somatic symptoms. Conclusions Although a growing number of psychosocial interventions have been developed to improve the adjustment of SCCs, research evidence of the effects of these interventions on SCCs' adjustment remains limited. Future research needs to rigorously evaluate the effects of these interventions.

Inconsistent, uncoordinated, and reactive: The current state of sibling psychosocial care

“…Four elements are incorporated, including: (a) psychoeducation about siblings , consisting of advice offered to parents on anticipating and meeting siblings’ needs 13 ; (b) routine, universal sibling psychosocial screening for current and anticipated difficulties conducted multiple times along the cancer trajectory 3,15,16 using sibling‐specific instruments (e.g., the Sibling Cancer Needs Instrument 10 or the revised Psychosocial Assessment Tool Sibling Modules 17 ); (c) identifying siblings who could benefit from comprehensive psychosocial assessment ; and (d) sibling psychosocial supports appropriately matched to the sibling's individual level of psychosocial need as determined through screening/assessment 15,16,18 . Despite a lack of empirically validated sibling interventions, 19,20 preliminary evidence suggests that support groups, 21 developmentally appropriate medical education, 22 and oncology camps 23 may reduce siblings’ emotional distress and improve psychological well‐being.…”

“…and (d) sibling psychosocial supports appropriately matched to the sibling's individual level of psychosocial need as determined through screening/assessment. 15,16,18 Despite a lack of empirically validated sibling interventions, 19,20 preliminary evidence suggests that support groups, 21 developmentally appropriate medical education, 22 and oncology camps 23 may reduce siblings' emotional distress and improve psychological well-being.…”

“…First, this study exclusively collected data from hospital-based psychosocial providers; future studies should incorporate other important perspectives (e.g., siblings, parents, patients, and community-based providers) to strengthen our understanding of sibling care practices. Additionally, data collection primarily occurred before the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic (n = 24) or in the early months thereof (n = 3). COVID-19 and associated visitor restrictions have greatly impeded centers'…”

Is the family talk intervention feasible in paediatric oncology? An evaluation of a family‐based psychosocial intervention

“…7,8 Healthcare professionals play an important role in supporting families, but research indicates that they perceive multiple barriers to this, such as poor communication skills and lack of time. 9 Evaluations of psychosocial interventions in paediatric oncology have increased in number over the past decade [10][11][12][13] and their effect on psychological outcomes has been positive. 14 Although the entire family is affected when a child has cancer and should receive psychosocial support from their paediatric oncology centre, 5,12 systematic reviews show that few psychosocial family-based interventions have been scientifically evaluated.…”

“…Meeting 6 is a follow-up with the family and is guided by the family members' needs regarding communication and parenting. Extra meetings [7][8][9][10][11] are available when needed.…”