Exploring familial psychosocial support needs following an adolescent and young adult cancer diagnosis: a mixed methods study

Summary

A cancer diagnosis during adolescence and young adulthood is associated with a range of experienced adverse psychological, social and developmental outcomes (5, 7-11). Whilst this growing body of research makes a considerable contribution to our current understanding of the psychological impact of cancer and the various factors that are associated with it, significant gaps in our understanding still remain, which hinders the development of policy and interventions to help support AYAs (adolescents and young adults) and their families. There is an AYA Cancer Service Network in Ireland (12), yet in NI there are currently no age-appropriate psychological support services for AYAs with cancer and their families (13). The need for developing effective psychosocial support services for AYACS (adolescents and young adult cancer survivors) is a vital element to improve psychological wellbeing, QoL and resilience amongst this group (5, 10), but the development of such services must be evidence-based. Despite research highlighting the importance of family support for AYAs with cancer, a significant limitation is that most research focuses on AYAs individual needs (5). The family provides an ecosystem of support, but little is known about the ways that families provide support and help AYACS navigate the transition from adolescence into young adulthood (6).

This proposed mixed-methods study will provide an opportunity towards identifying and generating recommendations for psychological support services for families of AYACS. The study will build upon and extend a current study that is exploring the psychosocial needs of AYACS across the island of Ireland. The study aims to identify familial impact and support needs during and following an AYAs cancer diagnosis. Specifically, the core objectives are to determine the impact of cancer diagnosis upon family; explore current familial support services and identify need; assess what role family plays in supporting AYAs with cancer; and develop partnerships with key stakeholders to make available robust evidence to inform policy and practice regionally.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship
• Evidence of academic writing skills (a short sample of academic written work of the applicant's choosing (Max 3 pages, A4, font 11)) – please upload in the section entitled Research Proposal

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• A demonstrable interest in or experience of using open science methods

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.