Psychosexual Identity Development After Testicular cancer Recovery
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Impact On Development Of Psychosexual Identity Following Recovery From Testicular Cancer During Adolescence
IRAS ID
289358
Contact name
Abdullah Aldiwan
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Salomons Institute, Canterbury Christchurch University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 1 days
Research summary
This project aims to focus on the experience of how adolescents and young adults with testicular cancer appraise and make sense of their experience. According to Cancer Research UK (2012), testicular cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosis in adolescents and young adults (AYA), with 2000 new diagnoses made annually in AYA between 15 – 25 years of age. Testicular cancer treatment often involves surgery to remove a testicle. This will understandably have an impact on the individual, regardless of their age or physical health (Skoogh et al., 2011).
The research has often focussed on adult testicular cancer survivors. A small amount of research has emphasised the need of adolescents and young adults (E.g. Dobinson et al., 2016) using grounded theory, however our proposal is for a focus on teenage testicular cancer survivors using IPA. Although recommendations for medical support have been made (e.g. Moore and Higgin, 2009) the lack of research detailing psychological needs is apparent. This has been recommended for age appropriateness, especially as testicular cancer and its treatments impact not only biological factors but also the individual's sense of identity and sexuality (Kelly et al., 2013).
These findings May help clinicians work with AYA Testicular Cancer sufferers with more compassion, improving their lives and enhancing the positive clinical outcomes in their presentations (e.g. reducing need for further psychological or medical input).
The study aims to recruit 8-10 patients whom recovered from testicular cancer diagnosed and treated during their adolescent years (14-19). One semi-structured interview will be carried out per participant. The interviews will focus on; The particpants experience of learning about the diagnosis, the impact of the diagnosis and treatment and changes in perceived identity. The method of analysis with be Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.
REC name
HSC REC B
REC reference
21/NI/0051
Date of REC Opinion
14 Apr 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion