The language of loss: Communication between dying children and their parents.
Item
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Title
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The language of loss: Communication between dying children and their parents.
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Identifier
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AAI9946221
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identifier
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9946221
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Creator
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Spier, Margaret M.
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Contributor
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Adviser: David J. Bearison
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Date
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1999
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Psychology, Clinical | Psychology, Developmental | Psychology, Social | Sociology, Individual and Family Studies
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Abstract
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Since the 1970s there has been a movement to facilitate open communication regarding diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis with children who have cancer. Previous research findings have suggested that children as young as four may have an awareness of the serious nature of their disease. Offering discussion in an age-appropriate manner can help these children alleviate feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. Still, little is known about how open communication policies have affected parent/child discourse about death and dying.;The present study was a prospective, phenomenological exploration of communication between dying children and their parents. The objectives of the study were to capture the subjective experience of both children and parents and to examine barriers to communication.;A case study design, utilizing qualitative interviews and participant observation, was used. Six adolescents, who had a projected one year life expectancy estimated at less than 25 %, and their parent(s), were recruited to participate in weekly interviews. Open-ended interviews were conducted over a period of time ranging from two to six months. Over the course of the study, four of the six children died.;Transcripts of all interviews were analyzed for thematic content. Analysis of the narratives indicates that: (1) Children with cancer do think about dying, and children who are dying are aware that they are doing so. The degree to which they want to express their thoughts and feelings about dying, however, varies considerably and is intricately connected with systems of psychological defense. (2) Patterns of communication and defense remain relatively stable over the course of the illness---and do not change markedly as death approaches. (3) Although communication about dying does occur, parents and children both engage in a form of mutual pretense regarding their emotional experiences. (4) Life-threatening illness continues to be accompanied by psychological isolation. However, the period of dying is not marked by the withdrawal of the dying child and/or his or her parent(s). (5) Issues related to the conception of self represent one of the major challenges for the sick and/or dying child.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
