Here at Cactus Cancer Society, we’re always interested in amplifying the voices and experiences of young adults facing cancer, and making sure this population is represented in research. Check out the research opportunity below to see how you can use your story to help others!
An Existential Punchline: How Humor Functions in a Young Adult Friendship Facing Advanced Cancer
Study Description
The purpose of this research is to explore a) the role of humor within the context of a close young adult friendship impacted by advanced cancer, b) humor’s role in the coping and meaning making process, and c) how humor may help survivors maintain authenticity and connection within their friendships.
Am I eligible to participate?
Participants are eligible who are:
- A member of a close friendship dyad in which one person is a young adult (i.e., between the ages of 18 and 39) diagnosed with cancer and one person is an adult (i.e., age 18 or older) who has not been personally diagnosed with cancer
- The cancer survivor member of the friendship dyad was diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 18 and 39
- The cancer survivor member of the friendship dyad has received an advanced diagnosis as defined by either stage III or IV, recurrent, or metastatic cancer OR a severe blood cancer such as AML, ALL, stage III or IV Hodgkin’s or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, or a myeloproliferative disorder
- Both people are English speaking
- Both people consent to participation in the study
What will I be asked to do?
- Contact lead researcher (Megan.Solberg@du.edu, 904.728.0203) to complete a brief study eligibility screening phone call (10 minutes)
- Complete a brief demographic questionnaire online (5 minutes)
- Participate together with their friend in one audio-recorded interview (60 to 90 minutes)
- Complete an optional follow-up questionnaire online (5-10 minutes)
Will I be compensated?
Yes, participants will receive a $25 electronic gift card.
How do I sign up?
Please contact lead researcher Megan Solberg to complete a brief study eligibility screening phone call (10 minutes). Megan can be reached by email at Megan.Solberg@du.edu or by phone at 904.728.0203.
