Perceived Social Support in Parents of Hospitalized Children During COVID-19.

Abstract

Purpose of this study was to explore levels of perceived social support and the associated factors in parents of hospitalized children. In the study were enrolled 110 parents (30 fathers and 80 mothers) of hospitalized children. Data were collected by the completion of "The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS)," which included patients' self-reported characteristics. The statistical significance level was p<0.05. From the 110 participants, 50% scored over 22, 22, and 20 (median) in support from significant ones, family, and friends, respectively. In addition, 25% of parents scored above 25, 25, and 24, respectively. With respect to the possible range of scores (4-28), these values indicate high levels of social support. Statistically significant higher levels of support from significant ones were experienced by parents who desired to be COVID-19 vaccinated (p=0.019) and had a person at home belonging to a vulnerable group (p=0.001). In terms of support from family, statistically significantly higher levels had parents who had been COVID-19 vaccinated (p=0.003), who had not experienced family conflicts during pandemic (p=0.026), and those who had a person at home belonging to a vulnerable group (p=0.001). Regarding support from friends, statistically significant levels were experienced by parents who wished to be vaccinated (p=0.012) and who had not experienced family conflicts during pandemic (p=0.050). Through this unprecedented global health issue, levels of support remained high. Vaccination, having a vulnerable person at home, and intra-family conflicts were associated with support. A better understanding of support in parents with hospitalized children may help in the planning of rational and cost-effective interventions.