Parent adaptation and family functioning in relation to narratives of children with chronic illness.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This study assessed the experience of parents who have a child diagnosed with chronic illness and whether children's narratives mirror these experiences. METHOD: A total of 66 parents completed assessments about adaptation and family functioning. Children with type 1 diabetes or asthma participated in a story-stem narrative task. RESULTS: Forty-one percent of parents were unresolved about their child's diagnosis, regardless of time since diagnosis. Unresolved parents reported lower family functioning, and children in these families had more family conflict themes. CONCLUSIONS: Parental/Child narratives may provide unique insights into family adjustment. Future work may consider interventions related to family communication and expression of emotion.