The effect of group counseling on the quality of life of patients and survivors of pediatric cancer and brain tumors

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of group counseling on patients and survivors' of pediatric cancer and brain tumors perceptions of quality of life. There were five participants between the ages of 11 and 16 years of age. Participants attended a 12-week group counseling intervention focused on two areas of need identified in the literature, coping skills and social competence. Both quantitative and qualitative data was collected. The Outcome Rating Scale was used to assess social competence; the Coping Response Inventory was used to assess development of coping skills; the Group Session Rating Scale was administered to assess therapeutic factors in the group experience. Two qualitative questionnaires which assessed both social and coping skills were also administered to the group. The sample demonstrated significant growth in the individual, social, and overall (life satisfaction) subscales of the Outcome Rating Scale and demonstrated significant growth on the logical analysis subscale of the Coping Response Inventory. Group Session Rating Scales scores remained mostly high and stable throughout the process. The qualitative questionnaires indicated several themes including: gaining a new, positive perspective; improved coping skills; relating to others, and self efficacy.