A Clinical Case Study of Solution-Focused Brief Therapy for Young Adult Cancer Patients’ Psychological Distress: Focusing on Positive Emotions

Abstract

Psychological distress is highly prevalent among adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients, an age-defined population (15–39) disproportionately impacted by their cancer diagnosis. Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is a strength-based and evidence-supported approach for youth with medical conditions. The use of SFBT in young cancer patients, however, has been rarely described. Building on the broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions, this study describes how SFBT clinicians intentionally foster positive emotions, especially hope, in an AYA cancer patient to foster therapeutic change. We found improvements in the patient’s psychological distress as well as growth in levels of hope both in the immediate post-intervention assessment and in the 2-week follow-up. The findings of the study suggested that SFBT is a promising approach to the unique challenges confronting AYAs with cancer. It was not feasible for this case study to match the sex and racial identities for a therapist with the client’s preference, which is considered a main limitation of this study.

Peer2Me – evaluation of a peer supported program for adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients: study protocol of a randomised trial using a comprehensive cohort design

“…AYA patients with lower self-efficacy may encounter difficulties in coping with their diagnosis and treatment, leading to increased psychological distress and reduced overall quality of life [ 16 , 17 ]. Additionally, low self-efficacy may impede AYA cancer patients’ ability to engage in self-care practices, adhere to treatment regimens, reduce healthcare utilization, and effectively cope with the challenges of cancer survivorship [ 16 , 18 ].…”