Table 3.

Missing relationship domains and sub-domains from HRQoL instruments

Impact on relationships
Sub-domain	Direct quote
External barriers (overprotective parents; treated as if still has cancer)	My mom wants to talk every 2 days. If I don’t she thinks I’m sick. She’s always worrying and doesn’t want me to do anything. I think parents should go through a psychological eval before you’re released from the hospital People are always surprised that I’m doing well and that I have a full head of hair. People think it should be a bigger deal to me but I always have to explain that it was so long ago and I don’t have it anymore
Internal barriers (difficulty trusting others; fear of burdening others; difficulties forming romantic relationships; concerns over scarring)	I don’t like the whole idea of making accommodations for me. I don’t want to burden people with making accommodations for me I’m not very social. When I had cancer there were always people that come in and out so you never get too attached I had some people I was dating react negatively to the scars and some who just play the sympathy card. I am worried that they won’t understand me and just pity me I usually end up lying about it (scar) saying I got in a car accident. I know I’m self- conscious about it but I will definitely judge what guys I date based on their reaction to it