Psychosocial Impact of Childhood Cancer on Parents with Children Diagnosed with Cancer: The Case of Parents Receiving Service at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2014-06
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AAU
Abstract
Cancer, one of the non-communicable diseases is gaining momentum in Ethiopia. As
the country has only one cancer treatment center for both adults and children, the
challenges associated with that are immense. In line with that, this study, focused on
identifying the psychosocial impacts parents of children diagnosed with cancer have
and how they cope with those impacts. Qualitative approach particularly case study
design was used in this study. The tools for primary data collection were in-depth
interviews and focus group discussions in order to gain in-depth information.
Purposive sampling technique was used to select participants leading to sixteen
parents of children with cancer who are currently following either admitted or as an
outpatient to be involved in the study. In addition to that, three health care
professionals were involved as key informants. The findings of the study reveal that
parents with children diagnosed with cancer had encountered different psychological,
social and physical impacts that are interdependent on one another. In addition to that,
parents use different problem and emotional focused coping strategies to mitigate the
challenges they encounter. Different informal and formal support systems also assist
them to cope. However, the findings also show that the support parents are receiving
is more inclined towards social support neglecting the psychological problems they
have. The findings of the study present social work implication in the areas of
practice, education, research and policy.