The psychological impact of a dying child on Chinese family members

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the psychological impact of a dying child on Chinese family members. Twelve parents of children with fatal illnesses were interviewed in hospital by a nursing doctoral student. The data were analysed by methods used in grounded theory research and common themes regarding family's responses were identified. They were: (1) parents' feelings of shock and disbelief, including the Chinese concept of yuan; (2) parents' depression and uncertainty; (3) parents' feelings of dissatisfaction; (4) family's conflicts and confusion including the use of Chinese herbs; and (5) healthy siblings' responses and feelings of being ignored. The impact on family functioning included decreasing participation in social activities, the family's being afraid of their future lives affected by fengshui and having more family conflicts. Whether parents were able to adjust well depended upon their marital relationship, the availability of social support, individuals' endurance, and their commitment to religious practices. The findings have implications for nursing practices in counseling dying children and their family members, in teaching communication skills to parents, and working with teachers at schools.