Profiles and predictors of resilient functioning in youths with pediatric cancer history

Objective To identify and predict resilient functioning over time among youths with pediatric cancer experience (YPCE).Design YPCE aged 8–17 years (N = 231) were followed prospectively for 3 years. Their psychosocial adjustment was assessed using self-report and parent-report at 1 year (T2) and 3 years (T3) post-baseline.Methods Latent profile analysis identified subgroups of YPCE with different patterns of adjustment over time. Self-reported factors from baseline and T2 were examined as predictors of subgroup membership.Findings Three subgroups of youths were found. Two exhibited average (52.5% of the sample) to better-than-average (41.3%) functioning. One subgroup (6.2%) exhibited subclinical but at-risk range of adjustment. Low optimism and low connectedness to parents and school predicted membership in this group.Conclusions Most YPCE exhibit resilient functioning across time. However, approximately 6% report persistent maladjustment.Implications Most YPCE are well-adjusted, but those with low optimism and poor connection to parents or school may require monitoring for psychosocial difficulties.