"Endless challenges, decisions, and conflicts" - problem-solving experiences related to children's treatment process among parents of children with cancer: A phenomenological study.
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PURPOSE: Parental problem-solving is strongly associated with their psychosocial adjustment when facing their children's cancer. However, a comprehensive understanding of the major problems parents encounter and how they address these problems remains limited. This study aimed to explore parental problem-solving experiences during their children's cancer treatment processes. METHODS: A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted at three tertiary hospitals in mainland China. A sample of 35 informants was recruited, comprising 22 parents who participated in individual interviews and a focus group interview that included eight additional parents and five healthcare providers. Data were analyzed based on Colaizzi's descriptive analysis framework. RESULTS: Three overarching themes were identified. First, "The burden of caregiving is suffocating me" captured parents' overwhelming experiences of caregiving, characterized by emotional distress, physical exhaustion, social isolation, and the need to constantly manage complex medical challenges, children's psychological changes, and ongoing uncertainty about the future. Second, "Our entire family's routine has been disrupted" described role strain, marital tension, and financial pressures that reverberated throughout the household. Third, "Three choices to cope with problems" portrayed the distinct styles parents adopt when solving problems: "positivity and rationality," "passivity and avoidance," and "impulsivity and carelessness." CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable insights into the multiple and intensive challenges parents face and their various problem-solving styles during the problem-solving journey. These findings can aid healthcare providers in designing targeted interventions to enhance their problem-solving skills. The implementation of problem-solving skills training is recommended to assist parents in managing challenges effectively and overcoming dysfunctional problem-solving styles.