Comparing cancer narratives of pediatric cancer survivors and healthy siblings

Background: Narrative interventions benefit adolescents and young adults with cancer (AYAC), but less is known about unaffected siblings (SIBS), despite evidence of sibling distress. This study compared narrative themes, perceived benefits, and quality of life (QOL) between AYAC and SIBS. Methods: Participants were pediatric cancer survivors diagnosed ages 11–18 and off treatment ≥1 year (AYAC; n = 20) and unaffected siblings of pediatric cancer survivors (SIBS; n = 20). Participants recorded video narratives and completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) and Post Video Impressions Questionnaire (PVIQ). Videos were coded using population-specific thematic codebooks. Results: Both groups demonstrated high meaning-making and reported similarly positive perceived benefits. AYAC discussed diagnosis/treatment and identity themes more deeply, whereas SIBS discussed others’ mental health more deeply. AYAC reported significantly poorer QOL across all domains than SIBS. Conclusions: Despite poorer QOL among survivors, both groups reported comparable benefits from narrative expression, supporting narrative interventions for survivors and siblings.