Research
Title of thesis: Strategies of Chinese Young Female Cancer Survivors in Coping with Fertility-related Concerns after Gonadotoxic Treatment: Developing Agency in WeChat Support Groups
Description of thesis research:
This study aims to explore the biosociality and subjectivity of Chinese young female cancer survivors (FYCS) navigating post-cancer treatment fertility issues. Cancer and its treatments profoundly affect the fertility of FYCS, giving rise to complex physical and psychological challenges. Existing research highlights unmet needs among FYCS in seeking fertility-related information and support, pointing to the potential benefits of online support platforms. In China, WeChat groups emerge as crucial channels to address the fertility information needs of Chinese FYCS, offering a promising avenue for investigating how online interactions influence the renegotiation of their gendered identities.
This research proposes an integrated theoretical framework, drawing from social constructionism, symbolic interactionism, and biosociality theories, to examine the impact of online interactions on FYCS's self-identity and the construction of their experiences related to fertility. Employing qualitative research methods, the study involves ethnographic online observations lasting at least one year in 1-2 WeChat groups dedicated to providing fertility information for female cancer patients. Additionally, semi-structured in-depth interviews will be conducted with 40 eligible FYCS selected from WeChat groups.
Hopefully, this research will disclose the subjective experiences and coping strategies employed by Chinese FYCS, providing a novel perspective on their biosociality and subjectivity. Furthermore, the study is expected to offer valuable insights for healthcare service providers and policymakers, with the goal of enhancing support services and interventions for FYCS.
Involvement in research groups, networks and projects:
