Category 3.1: self-estrangement arising from withdrawal
After adolescents with cancer perceive body image change,
it is difficult for them to interact with friends, and even to
develop intimate relationships. They tend to be mocked, and
are extremely anxious about responses to questions about
changes in their physical appearance. Therefore, they will
adopt coping strategies, such as social withdrawal and social
isolation. Some studies (Larouche & Chin-Peuckert, 2006;
Williamson et al., 2010) showed adolescents with cancer perceive
that body image change will make it difficult for them
to interact with friends, go to school, participate in leisure
activities, and even develop intimate relationships.Therefore,
they will avoid social activities to reduce embarrassment.
Williamson et al. (2010) also noted that adolescents have
been stared at, teased, received unwanted attention and questioning,
and occasionally been avoided by friends.