Abstract
To investigate the experiences of Taiwanese school-aged children coping with maternal breast cancer. A qualitative interview study. A cohort of 10 boys and 12 girls aged 6 to 13years (mean age, 9.86years) whose mothers were diagnosed with breast cancer in the last 2years were recruited from patient networks in Taiwan. Data were collected from February to June 2019 via semi-structured individual interviews. Their responses were subjected to content analysis. Content analysis yielded six themes: (1) reluctance to share feelings with others; (2) recognizing changes in the tone of family life; (3) casting the cause of breast cancer onto oneself; (4) engaging in active coping; (5) maturing and gaining life lessons; and (6) family communication matters. The findings shed light on how family processes and cultural beliefs shape children's experiences. School-aged children came to terms with the significance of maternal breast cancer from a broad context of family experiences over time, and thus gained insights into their self-expectations and future aspirations. Healthcare professionals can help school-aged children develop a rational view of breast cancer pathogenesis. In addition, we suggest nursing interventions to support a family-oriented approach to coping. Such interventions should address changes in family processes to improve coping abilities of children and the entire family.
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