Experiences of Families of children with Cancer Regarding support sources and coping strategies

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate views of parents and siblings of children with cancer whose treatment is continuing about family support sources and individual coping strategies. In line with this purpose, face to face interviews were conducted with 24 parents and 12 siblings from 12 families. Data were analyzed through inductive content analysis approach. Themes and sub-themes that formed support sources and coping strategies were identified according to the analyses results. Accordingly, support sources were composed of the themes such as internal family strengths, extended family support, health team, social support, workplace support, and support from the institutions and organizations. Coping strategies included themes such as appraisal-focused, problem-focused, and emotion-focused themes. In conclusion, the present study revealed important clues about planning protective and supportive interventions for the families in a way to include medical health care providers.