Study of the family bonds of adolescents and young adults with cancer using libre-réalisation de l’arbre généalogique

Background and objective: The adolescent and young adult (“AYA”) period extends from age 15 to 24, during which the process of becoming an adult and the evolution of the family bond generate new questions and require the entire family to create some distance. However, the sudden and unexpected appearance of cancer, which implies the possibility of death, adds a unique dimension to these questions, confronting the young individual with their own mortality. Our aim is to investigate the impact of cancer on family bonds to comprehend the extent to which it challenges familial connections.

Method: We employed a qualitative methodology involving young patients (n=9) by using Libre-Réalisation de l’Arbre généalogique (LRAg). This method enables AYAs to utilize their own codes and fantasies to construct the tree, followed by a discussion to explore the subjective reinterpretation of their personal history. Results: A cross-sectional analysis of the findings reveals two themes: “Participants’ graphical expression,” consisting of sub-themes (Graphic and spatial representation; Inscriptions and construction of familial bonds; Representations of connections - marital, filial, and sibling - and future projections) and “Verbal expression postrealization.” Conclusion: Cancer detrimentally affects familial bonds, often rendering it challenging, and at times impossible, to maintain a sense of belonging within the family unit and envision the future. Further research is warranted to gain a deeper understanding of the psychological toll of cancer adaptation.