Pediatric Cancer Patients' Peer Relationships

Abstract

Increasing numbers of pediatric cancer patients attend summer camp sessions designed for them. Since 1976, more than 60 camps have been established in the United States alone. A major outcome of these experiences is the patients' formation of relationships that last beyond the camp sessions. Although these relationships are of major importance to the children, they do not replace their relationships with healthy peers. Each type of relationship fulfills different functions; the children value both. This article examines the children's perceptions of the advantages and disadvantages of both types of relationships.