Optimism and psychological well‐being among parents of children with cancer: an exploratory study

Abstract

The findings highlight the importance of optimism in relationship to psychological distress in parents of children with cancer. Interventions targeting parents' optimism are recommended as a potential source of coping with adversity within this population.

Hopelessness and Depression Levels of Parents of Children with Cancer

“…In this study, the levels of hopelessness of mothers who said they received support from their families and relatives were lower than those who did not have this type of support. Similarly, other studies found a positive correlation between hope and social support and a negative correlation between social support and depression (Norberg and Boman, 2007;Fotiadou et al, 2008). Studies have also shown a positive correlation between perceived social support and adaptation to a disease (Barrera et al, 2003;Han, 2003).…”

“…Similarly, Bayat et al (2008) reported a positive relation between the levels of parents' depression and hopelessness. Another study reported a negative relation between hope and anxiety and depression (Fotiadou et al, 2008).…”

“…They also affect the child's adjustment to the diagnosis and the treatment of the disease and the child's social, emotional and behavioural adaptation (Fotiadou et al, 2008;Peek and Melnyk, 2010). Paediatric oncology nurses have an important role in determining parents at risk of mental disorders.…”

Experiences of Nursing Students in Caring for Pediatric Cancer Patients

“…However, despite its present status as a chronic disease, cancer is perceived as a serious disease that causes uncertainty, sadness and guilt, and which evokes suffering and death (Fotiadou et al, 2008;Klassen et al, 2011). The literature suggests that the diagnosis of cancer leads to severe psychological trauma in the child and in the child's family, causing them to experience emotional, behavioural and social problems and to exhibit more aggressive behaviours and serious adjustment problems (Wijnberg-Williams et al, 2006;Liang et al, 2007;Fayed et al, 2011;Klassen et al, 2011).…”

Optimism and sense of coherence in mothers and fathers of children with cerebral palsy participating in an intensified habilitation programme

“…Optimism may function as a moderator and predictor between child problems and parental adjustments (Baker, Blacher, and Olsson 2005;Heinonen et al 2006). Lowered optimism has been found in parents of children with impairments (Ekas, Lickenbrock, and Whitmann 2010;Fotiadou et al 2008;Labbé et al 2002). However, participation in an intensive habilitation program has been reported to increase optimism among mothers of preschool children with CP .…”