Cultural Influence on Family Management of Children With Cancer

Abstract

A family's cultural context directly influences how they define and manage their child's cancer. Knowing this dynamic can guide nurses in delivering holistic, culturally competent care. This literature review examines the international and domestic pediatric oncology research as it relates to the inclusion of family and cultural variables. Most international studies and comparative studies have investigated Asian cultures and found that health beliefs, communication beliefs, religious practice, and family structure are common themes of cultural influences on families. Additional studies within the United States are needed to explore cultural beliefs through carefully tailored family assessments. Implications for practice include the possibility of providing evidence-based culturally competent care to families of children with cancer.