Date of Graduation
Summer 8-15-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Department
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Program
Clinical Psychology (PsyD)
First Advisor
Dr. Brent Ferm
Second Advisor
Dr. Bryan Whaley
Third Advisor
Dr. Catherine Coleman
Abstract
Despite decreasing mortality rates, the high prevalence and incidence of pediatric cancer necessitate the need for advancements in the treatment of psychological concerns, specifically the reduction of patient distress and anxiety. A more comprehensive understanding of current reassurance messages in clinical practice can aid in developing a standardized framework for providing reassurance in pediatric oncology. Qualitative Content Analysis was employed to examine the types of messages nurses use to reassure patients (to reduce their anxiety about a future health-related event) and how effective nurses perceive these messages to be in relieving patients' anxiety. The adult participants, located at hospitals throughout the United States, recalled their clinical experiences working as nurses in pediatric oncology. The researcher’s findings from semi-structured interviews with ten participants included seven themes; A) emotional and behavioral indicators of need for reassurance, B) reassurance as a daily continuous practice C) distinct functions and content of reassurance messages, D) patient’s concerns about uncertain future health events, E) eight categories of factors contributing to type of reassurance message, F) factors that indicate perceived effectiveness of reassurance strategies and specific strategies identified as effective, G) nurses’ decision to adapt or maintain reassurance strategies. Findings support the value of future research to expand knowledge of the content and effectiveness of reassurance strategies used by healthcare professionals with this population. An analysis of these findings and suggestions for future research are discussed. Implications include advanced training based on integrating current psychotherapy processes and outcome research on the efficacy of common factors.
Recommended Citation
Faller, I. (2026). The Role of Reassurance Messages in Pediatric Oncology. Retrieved from https://repository.usfca.edu/diss/759
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