Behavioral Interventions in the Diagnosis, Treatment and Rehabilitation of Children with Cancer

Authors

  • Katherine N. DuHamel From the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA
  • William H. Redd From the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA
  • Suzanne M. Johnson Vickberg From the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1080/028418699432879

Abstract

Behavioral interventions used to reduce distress and increase cooperation in children undergoing cancer treatment incorporate: contingency management, cognitive/attentional distraction, hypnosis, systematic desensitization, modeling and behavioral rehearsal. In most cases clinical interventions integrate these procedures into a multimodal intervention package. Although in most behavioral interventions the 'therapist' is a nurse, social worker or child psychologist; parents often take an active role in behavioral intervention. Early return to school can 'normalize' the child's life in the midst of coping with cancer and can promote optimal rehabilitation. More research is needed on the integration of behavioral methods with other therapeutic methods (e.g., pharmacologic). Indeed, research in this area of pediatric oncology must be continuously updated as advances in other areas may affect clinical decisions regarding preferred psychosocial intervention methods.

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Published

1999-01-01

How to Cite

DuHamel, K. N., Redd, W. H., & Johnson Vickberg, S. M. (1999). Behavioral Interventions in the Diagnosis, Treatment and Rehabilitation of Children with Cancer. Acta Oncologica, 38(6), 719–734. https://doi.org/10.1080/028418699432879