Variables associated with grief and personal growth following the death of a child from cancer: A mixed method analysis

Abstract

This mixed method study explored parent and child characteristics that impact grief and personal growth in parents (n = 119) after a child dies from cancer in Australia. Medical components of a child’s cancer care including radiation treatment, referral to palliative care, and location of death had a significant impact on levels of grief. Parents’ gender, religious affiliation, and education level had a significant impact on levels of personal growth. This study further enhances our understanding of the impact of specific parent and child characteristics throughout a child’s cancer treatment and end of life that may influence their families’ experience of bereavement.

Acknowledgements

We would like to offer our thanks to the parents who graciously participated in this study. Your contribution of thought and experiences is invaluable.