Homesickness and Children's Adjustment to Hospitalization: Toward a Preliminary Model

Abstract

To better understand the role of homesickness in children's adjustment to hospitalization, we culled self-report and observational data from hospital staff, primary caregivers, and children (n = 50) in a variety of inpatient units (psychiatric, burn, rehabilitation). Homesickness was more severe and less predictable than in comparable samples of children in less stressful environments (e.g., summer camp). The best predictors were negative hospitalization attitudes and previous separations from home, such as foster placements. Contrary to our hypotheses, insecure attachment and low perceived control did not predict homesickness. In the context of a “homesick disposition” model, prevention strategies should emphasize information provision, positive modeling, and coping skills training.