Children with cancer face myriad psychosocial challenges as they try to cope with their condition. The inherent qualities of the Internet-connectivity and interactivity in a media-rich environment-make it a promising tool for addressing these challenges. A comprehensive and scientific understanding of the impact of Internet technology is key to defining its role as an intervention in pediatric healthcare. We propose to develop an Internet-based intervention to help children deal with issues of isolation, fear, anxiety, and decreased self-esteem by providing access to a community of peers in an environment that encourages communication, education, and self-expression. We will evaluate the intervention by studying program effects in alleviating loneliness, anxiety, and stress. In addition, we will examine the value of the intervention as a communication and socialization tool by assessing effects on self-esteem, coping behaviors, and feelings of control over health destiny. Our goal is to keep the child connected to the school during diagnosis and treatment, and to connect the child with a community of peers who are experiencing similar challenges related to illness. In this way, we will use the Internet as the basis for what we call """"""""social computing"""""""" in an integration of technology and social need.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase II (R44)
Project #
1R44CA086661-01
Application #
6143090
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-SSS-D (01))
Program Officer
Dresser, Connie M
Project Start
2000-09-01
Project End
2001-04-30
Budget Start
2000-09-01
Budget End
2001-04-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$106,914
Indirect Cost
Name
Leap of Faith Technologies, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Crystal Lake
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
60014
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