Resilience in Families with a Child with Cancer

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify and explore resilience factors associated with family adaption after a child had been diagnosed with cancer. Using a cross-sectional survey research design, parents (n = 26), and children (n = 25) from the same families independently completed six self-report questionnaires, as well as responded to an open-ended question about those qualities that helped their family through the period following the diagnosis. The most significant results came from the children's data. According to these results, connectedness within the family, the experience of control over life events, family routines, positive, and supportive communication, redefinition of crisis situations, and lastly, a passive appraisal of crisis situations, were positively linked to better family adaptation. The identified factors should be strengthened and developed in families finding themselves in a similar situation.

Keywords :

• cancer
• child
• family
• resilience