Control-Related Coping Strategies in Pediatric Oncology Patients

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Abstract
Use of control-related coping strategies was assessed in 52 pediatric oncology patients aged 6–17. Coping strategies were defined as informational, cognitive, decisional, and behavioral techniques utilized to decrease anxiety associated with the cancer experience. Control-related coping strategies were then used to predict emotional adjustment (as measured by self, parent, and nurse reports). Statistical analyses of the data included factor analysis and multiple regression techniques. Results suggested that behavioral control is the best predictor of emotional adjustment, and that the quality of behavioral control strategies utilized is more important than the quantity of strategies. Cognitive and decisional control were also significant predictors of adjustment. No effect was found for informational control. In addition to the control strategies, confidence in parents emerged as an important predictor of adjustment. Age difference were also found, with adolescents utilizing different patterns of control strategies than those used by younger children.

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