Perspective In Parental Coping With A Chronically Ill Child: The Case Of Cystic Fibrosis

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
In this article the utilization of Lazarus and Launier's theory on stress and coping is presented as a framework to analyze parents' responses to questionnaires concerning their perceptions of coping with a chronic illness, such as cystic fibrosis, in their child. Although the parents experienced degrees of stress in meeting the illness-related demands, they coped with it through the help of available resources and action-oriented and intrapsychic behaviors. Resources considered helpful included support from the family, assistance from the multidisciplinary team in the CF clinic, and contact with other parents in similar situations; an ability to focus on the positive aspects of the situation; and deep-seated beliefs of self-efficacy and the commitment to and love for the child. Coping behaviors consisted of efforts directed toward adhering to the treatment regimen and maintaining family stability. The latter coping behavior included a perception of normalization of the family. Implications for nursing practice are suggested.