Challenges and coping styles of fathers as primary medical caretakers: a multicultural qualitative study.

Challenges and coping styles of fathers as primary medical caretakers: a multicultural qualitative study.

Wolff, Joshua; Pak, Jenny; Meeske, Kathleen; Worden, J William; Katz, Ernest

Journal of Psychosocial Oncology

2010

Humans; Male; United States; Neoplasms; Middle Aged; Adult; Qualitative Research; Socioeconomic Factors; Social Support; Anemia, Sickle Cell; *Adaptation, Psychological; *Caregivers/px [Psychology]; *Fathers/px [Psychology]; *Father-Child Relations/eh [Ethnology]; Ethnicity/px [Psychology]; Family Conflict

Research has focused heavily on mother's experiences of children with life-threatening illnesses. In contrast, fathers' experiences, especially among minorities, are scarcely discussed. This study examined the experiences of 15 fathers as primary medical caretakers of children diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease. Using a life story method, fathers completed semistructured interviews regarding their overall experiences. Data was analyzed using narrative analysis with multiple case studies. Results indicated single, low socioeconomic status, and immigrant fathers with limited English proficiencies were at highest risk for coping difficulties. This study also examined gender biases that men experienced and masculine norms in coping.

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