Sibling adaptation to childhood cancer collaborative study: The association of sibling adaptation with maternal well-being, physical health, and resource use

Author(s): Roghmann, K. J., Mulhern, R. K., Carpenter, P. J., Sargent, J. R., Copeland, D. R., Barbarin, O. A., Zeltzer, L. K., Dolgin, M. J.

Journal/Book: J Develop Behav Pediat. 1997; 18: 351 West Camden St, Baltimore, MD 21201-2436. Williams & Wilkins. 233-243.

Abstract: This multi-institutional study investigated the association of behavioral/emotional adaptation among siblings of children with cancer with maternal general well-being, physical health, and resource use. One hundred seventy siblings and mothers completed standardized interviews and self-report measures 6 to 42 months after the cancer was diagnosed. As a group, mothers of children with cancer reported significantly lower levels of well-being than matched controls. When stratified according to the level of the sibling's behavioral/emotional adaptation, mothers of siblings in the Dysfunctional group (1) reported the lowest levels of well-being; (2) during the preceding year, were more likely to have sought professional services than mothers of children in the Resilient group; and (3) were least likely to have found social support helpful. Our results support an association between maternal well-being and sibling adjustment but show it is unlikely that nonspecific social support will improve adjustment. The rationale for problem-solving training for mothers is provided.

Note: Article Sahler OJZ, Childrens Hosp, Box 690, 601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester,NY 14642 USA

Keyword(s): childhood cancer; maternal health; maternal resource utilization; maternal well-being; sibling adaptation; PEDIATRIC CANCER; CHRONIC ILLNESS; PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENT; HANDICAPPED-CHILDREN; SOCIAL SUPPORT; MENTAL-HEALTH; STRESS; PARENTS; LEUKEMIA; MOTHERS

Zurück | Weiter