Social Support in Laryngeal Cancer Survivors

Abstract

Patients who had laryngectomies were grouped according to adjustment scales into "good copers" and "poorer copers." More than 70% of the laryngeal cancer survivors were well adjusted and classified as "good copers." Three social support scales were administered and revealed that "good copers" perceived themselves as having better quality networks and more functional support. A subjective self-evaluation of the subjects’ voices revealed a relationship between perceived voice quality, adjustment, and perceived social support. Rehabilitation for some patients with laryngectomies may need to include more direct nurturing; speech-language pathologists may want to suggest self-help groups or professional support counseling.