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The Relationship Between Spirituality and the Developing Brain: A Framework for Pediatric Oncology

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Abstract

Development, whether motor, language, social, or spiritual, is the functional expression of complex brain processes throughout one’s life span, the foundations of which are laid in childhood. The effects of cancer, chemotherapy, radiation, and surgical procedures on early brain development have been measured using neuroimaging and developmental assessment tools. We propose that spiritual development may be substantially affected in children with oncological diseases that impact underlying brain processes. By drawing connections between science, spirituality, and medicine, we can better address the spiritual needs of children as they cope with oncological diseases, by mitigating emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms and improving outcomes.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to acknowledge Taeun Chang, M.D., for her thoughtful comments on brain development.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 2200 Children’s Way, Nashville, TN, 8161 DOT37232-9760, USA

    Rachel S. Werk

  2. Divisions of Pediatric Critical Care and Pediatric Palliative Care, Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA

    David M. Steinhorn

  3. Department of Integrative Medicine and Nutritional Sciences, Marcus Institute of Integrative Health, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Andrew Newberg

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  1. Rachel S. Werk
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Werk, R.S., Steinhorn, D.M. & Newberg, A. The Relationship Between Spirituality and the Developing Brain: A Framework for Pediatric Oncology. J Relig Health 60, 389–405 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-020-01014-7

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