Young people and parental cancer : recommendations for social intervention within the Maltese context

Abstract

This research project aims to explore the experiences and of young people facing parental cancer. · The literature review highlights the various themes and theories that the author took into consideration while conducting the study. Youth is a transition period where young people disassociate themselves from the family nucleus, thus seeking autonomy. Still this research project will eventually highlight a strong bond between the cancer-stricken parent and the youth facing the trauma. The study is contextualized through a deep emphasis on the Maltese current situation. A qualitative approach to data collection and analysis was adopted. The data filtered from the interviews was analysed using a grounded theory approach. The main themes that emerged from the study are as follows: Initial emotions, coping with emotions and youth and support action. The study ends with a summary of the main conclusions and makes relevant recommendations for policy implementation, service development ad suggestions for further research.