The Role of the Family in Children's Responses to Stressful Medical Procedures

Abstract

The role of the family in removing various psychological risk factors for the hospitalized child is explored. The importance of the physical presence of the parents and siblings is documented and programs to increase their presence on the pediatric ward are described. The potential for the parent to act as either a positive or negative model, bearer of relevant information, and source of control over medical procedures is discussed. Finally, programs that train parents in risk reduction strategies are presented and the need for future research in this area is stressed.