Challenges and Coping Styles of Fathers as Primary Medical Caretakers: A Multicultural Qualitative Study

Abstract

Research has focused heavily on mother's experiences of children with life-threatening illnesses. In contrast, fathers’ experiences, especially among minorities, are scarcely discussed. This study examined the experiences of 15 fathers as primary medical caretakers of children diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease. Using a life story method, fathers completed semistructured interviews regarding their overall experiences. Data was analyzed using narrative analysis with multiple case studies. Results indicated single, low socioeconomic status, and immigrant fathers with limited English proficiencies were at highest risk for coping difficulties. This study also examined gender biases that men experienced and masculine norms in coping.

KEYWORDS:

• fathers
• pediatrics
• oncology
• multicultural issues
• coping

This study was fully funded by a faculty development grant from Biola University awarded to J. William Worden, PhD, ABPP. This study was completed as part of a doctoral dissertation project completed at Biola University. We would like to thank the following undergraduate students at Biola University who helped with this project: Evangelina Oka, Ngoc Nguyen, Jeanette Razo, and Johanna Jimenez. We would also like to thank the faculty and staff at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles and Biola University who supported this project through their help with the IRB approval process and in providing participant referrals. Additionally, we would like to thank the participants for sharing their stories openly with this research team.