Family Support Research Articles

Beyond the Binary: Exploring the Lived Experiences of Gender Dysphoric Adolescents in Indonesia

Introduction: Gender dysphoria among adolescents is increasingly recognized globally, yet research on the lived experiences of transgender youth in Indonesia remains limited. This study aimed to explore the unique challenges, coping mechanisms, and support needs of Indonesian adolescents navigating gender dysphoria within a sociocultural context characterized by traditional gender norms and limited access to specialized healthcare. Methods: In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 adolescents (aged 13-19) who identified as experiencing gender dysphoria. Participants were recruited through LGBTQ+ youth organizations and community centers in Jakarta and Surabaya. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes and patterns within their narratives. Results: Four major themes emerged: (1) Early Recognition and Internal Conflict: Participants described an early awareness of their gender identity incongruence, often accompanied by feelings of confusion, shame, and fear due to societal expectations and potential rejection. (2) Navigating Disclosure and Social Support: Coming out to family and peers was a significant challenge, with varied responses ranging from acceptance to rejection. Support networks, primarily found within online communities and LGBTQ+ organizations, played a crucial role in fostering resilience. (3) Barriers to Accessing Healthcare: Participants reported significant obstacles in accessing gender-affirming care, including limited availability of specialized healthcare providers, financial constraints, and lack of family support. (4) Resilience and Hope for the Future: Despite the challenges, participants expressed resilience, hope, and a strong desire to live authentically. They emphasized the importance of self-acceptance, peer support, and advocacy for greater understanding and acceptance of gender diversity in Indonesia. Conclusion: This study provides valuable insights into the experiences of gender dysphoric adolescents in Indonesia. Findings highlight the urgent need for increased awareness, improved access to gender-affirming care, and supportive interventions to promote the well-being of this vulnerable population.

Mother's Perspective and Trust Toward Integrated Services Post (Posyandu) in Indonesia

Background The Integrated Services Post (ISP), also known as Posyandu, is a program designed to enhance maternal and child health by providing integrated basic health services. For years, communities have relied on ISP as a primary source of health information, particularly for maternal and child health needs. This study seeks to assess mothers’ knowledge, perspectives, and family support related to ISP, focusing on maternal understanding, behavior, family support, and trust in ISP services as measured by the Health Collaborative Center Survey. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey (Google Form) from February to March 2023. A total of 2,155 mothers were randomly selected as respondents. Data were collected via a self-designed questionnaire adapted from multiple sources, measuring knowledge, behavior, and family support regarding ISP. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to interpret mothers’ knowledge, behaviors, and levels of family support. Results The majority of respondents demonstrated good knowledge of ISP services. Over 98% of mothers correctly identified the appropriate time for weighing children, understood the definition of ISP, and recognized the benefits of weighing children at ISP. More than 70% of mothers correctly answered questions about ISP schedules, recommended child weighing age, and the use of the Health Card (HC). Mothers exhibited positive behavior and high trust toward ISP, with 88.5% strongly believing that ISP can contribute to improving maternal and child health. Family support was generally high, though 4% of respondents reported that their husbands or families opposed immunization, thus limiting their engagement with ISP services. Conclusion The majority of mothers in this study possess adequate knowledge, exhibit positive behavior, have high trust in ISP services, and receive substantial family support. Nevertheless, further education and community outreach are needed to improve understanding of severe malnutrition management, the importance of ISP services, and the benefits of immunization.

ANÁLISE CORRELACIONAL DA DEPRESSÃO EM PACIENTES COM CÂNCER DE MAMA: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA DE LITERATURA

Breast cancer is a neoplasm that affects more women than men and develops in the breast tissue. Depressive syndrome is one of the conditions that has contributed most to the increase in the global burden of health-related diseases, and is a condition closely related to cancer diagnosis. The aim of this study was to analyze the correlation of depressive disorder symptoms in breast cancer patients undergoing treatment. This study was developed through an integrative literature review (ILR) in the online databases VHL and PubMed, carried out between August and November 2024. The literature was searched according to the PICo strategy. The study of the data obtained was mediated according to the themes covered by the works acquired during the literature search. At the end of the filtering carried out according to the established exclusion and inclusion criteria, six publications were obtained, found in different journals and converging with the study objective. Five thematic categories were formed, which discuss prevalence; family support; mortality; genetic analysis and incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, it can be said that depression and breast cancer are extremely interlinked, especially in patients in susceptible situations and with difficult family support and genetic predisposition.

Developing Culturally Sensitive Suicide Prevention Programs for Medical Professionals in Indonesia

Introduction: Medical professionals in Indonesia experience high levels of stress, increasing their risk for mental health problems and suicidal behavior. Culturally appropriate suicide prevention programs are critical to address this issue. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally adapted suicide prevention program for Indonesian medical professionals. Methods: This mixed-methods study had two phases. Phase 1 involved program development, adapting an existing evidence-based suicide prevention program using a Delphi method with Indonesian mental health experts (n=10) and cultural consultants (n=5). Phase 2 comprised a pilot implementation of the program with 30 medical professionals. Quantitative data on program feasibility (attendance, completion rates) and acceptability (satisfaction surveys, qualitative feedback) were collected and analyzed. Results: The Delphi method resulted in a culturally adapted program incorporating Indonesian values related to collectivism, family support, religious beliefs, and stigma associated with mental health. Pilot implementation showed high attendance (87%) and program completion rates (93%). Participants expressed high satisfaction with the program's content, cultural relevance, and delivery format. Qualitative feedback emphasized the importance of peer support, spiritual integration, and addressing workplace stressors. Conclusion: This study provides preliminary evidence for the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally sensitive suicide prevention program for Indonesian medical professionals. Further research is needed to evaluate the program's effectiveness in reducing suicidal ideation and behavior.

Support for parents and families after stillbirth and neonatal death

Support for parents and families after stillbirth and neonatal death

The impact of family and friend support of physical activity on the participation in physical activity within Indigenous individuals in Saskatoon

IntroductionSocial support within Indigenous worldviews is recognized as a component of health and has been associated with physical activity and sedentary behaviour. Physical Activity (PA) is a modifiable behaviour that can help reduce risks of disease and benefit many dimensions of health. The purpose of this study was to compare the physical activity of Indigenous adults in Saskatchewan with and without family/friend support of PA.MethodsThe Family Influence on Physical Activity questionnaire was used to record the extent and forms of family/friend support of PA. The Godin Shepard Leisure Exercise Questionnaire (GSLEQ) was used to measure weekly PA, including moderate PA (MPA), vigorous PA (VPA), exercise frequency (WEF) and GSLEQ scores.ResultsIndigenous participants overall, First Nations and Cree participants specifically with family/friend involvement in PA reported greater weekly WEF and GSLEQ scores. Indigenous participants overall and First Nations participants specifically with family and friends who watch them engage in PA reported greater weekly VPA and GSLEQ scores. Among First Nations and Cree participants specifically, those with family/friends encouragement of PA reported greater weekly VPA, WEF and GSLEQ scores. Furthermore, First Nations participants with active family/friends reported significantly greater weekly VPA (36.8 ± 51.5 min·week−1 vs. 80.2 ± 108.5 min·week−1; p = 0.01). Greater weekly VPA was found in Métis participants with family/friend involvement in PA and with family/friends who watch them engage in PA (67.6 ± 59.6 min·week−1 vs. 29.5 ± 40.8 min·week−1; p = 0.01).DiscussionSocial support, specifically family/friends involvement, has a significant impact on Indigenous participation in PA.

Religiosity, perceived family support, and gender disclosure of LGBTQ + medical students in Thailand

Religiosity, perceived family support, and gender disclosure of LGBTQ + medical students in Thailand

Abstract 4143281: The Influence of Personal and Family Support on Maternal Cardiovascular Health: Insights from a TriNetX Study

Background: Maternal cardiovascular health during and after pregnancy is influenced by various factors, including personal and family support. However, the specific impact of abnormal personal and family support on maternal outcomes remains understudied. Methods: Utilizing the TriNetX global health research network within the US Collaborative Network, we investigated the influence of abnormal personal and family support (ICD10CM:Z63) on maternal cardiovascular outcomes within one year post-pregnancy. Cohort 1 comprised women aged 15 to 60 with documented problems relating to primary and family support during or after childbirth between 2008 and 2023. Cohort 2 included a similar demographic with good primary and family support. Data were extracted from electronic health records, and the cohorts were matched based on diverse sociodemographic traits and medical comorbidities. Results: Our analysis revealed significant associations between problems relating to primary and family support during and after pregnancy and adverse maternal cardiovascular outcomes. Specifically, the presence of such challenges significantly increased the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (OR: 4.823, 95% CI: 3.361 to 6.919, p<0.001) and all-cause mortality (OR: 8.461, 95% CI: 5.184 to 13.812, p<0.001). Interestingly, it was associated with a reduced risk of peripartum or postpartum preeclampsia (OR: 0.603, 95% CI: 0.403 to 0.903, p<0.001). However, no significant association was observed between these personal and family support challenges and acute MI (OR: 1.092, 95% CI: 0.482 to 2.747, p=NS), ischemic stroke (OR: 1.403, 95% CI: 0.623 to 3.160, p=NS), hemorrhagic stroke (OR: 1.000, 95% CI: 0.416 to 2.404, p=NS), heart failure (OR: 1.075, 95% CI: 0.636 to 1.817, p=NS), or peripartum cardiomyopathy (OR: 0.586, 95% CI: 0.322 to 1.068, p=NS). Conclusion: Our findings highlight the significant impact of abnormal personal and family support on maternal cardiovascular health outcomes during and one year after pregnancy. Addressing challenges related to primary and family support during and after pregnancy may be crucial for reducing adverse outcomes and enhancing overall maternal well-being.

A comparative study to elucidate factors explaining willingness to use home-care robots in Japan, Ireland, and Finland

AbstractThe implementation of home-care robots is sometimes unsuccessful. This study aimed to explore factors explaining people’s willingness to use home-care robots, particularly among care recipients and caregivers. Surveys were conducted in Japan, Ireland, and Finland. The survey questionnaire comprised four categories (familiarity with robots, important points about home-care robots, functions expected from home-care robots, and ethically acceptable uses), with 48 items assessing users’ willingness to use home-care robots. The responses from 525 Japanese, 163 Irish, and 170 Finnish respondents were analyzed to identify common and distinct factors influencing their willingness to use these robots. Common factors across the countries included “willingness to participate in research and development,” “interest in robot-related news,” and “having a positive impression of robots”. The distinct factors for each country were: “convenience” in Japan; “notifying family members and support personnel when an unexpected change occurs in an older person” in Ireland; and “design” in Finland. Therefore, developers should determine potential users’ willingness to participate in the research and development of home-care robots and consider a system that involves them in the development process.

The Impact of Family and Society on Women’s Career in Bangladesh

This paper aims at understanding factors that may lead woman to work professionally and balance their family responsibilities in Bangladesh. The study reveals that factors related to self-interest, economic gain, parental and spouse support, peer status, and lenient schedules are crucial enough to create an appetite for promotion. However global studies on workforce participation and women are economic initiatives lack understanding of the particular socio-cultural factors of Bangladeshi women. This research therefore seeks to fill this gap by exploring how professional dreaming is shaped by family responsibilities, culture and organizational practices. This research forms part of a qualitative study and employed semi-structured questionnaires to capture data from 30 professional women in Dhaka. According to education, profession, marital status criteria, participants were selected and open coded to find themes. The work also finds out that wives and mothers are among the most critical sources of support to empower females for dual responsibilities. Nonetheless, flexibility, which includes offering fewer working hours and more telecommuting opportunities, was another major factor hubs relied on to serve the same purpose of improving the women’s quality of life at the cost of their work-life balance. Nonetheless, supportive cultural factors such as motivators also have their limitations in promoting work life balance due to societal pressures and absence of polices such as child care in organizations. A range of participants described financial security and job satisfaction as the key motivation that determines career success that contributes to personal and social self-actualization. In this regard, the study emphasize on the need to adopt family agenda related policies and encourage cultural change that may enhance women’s career paths. To adequately satisfy women’s career motivation it is crucial to have a strong family support and adequate flexibility at workplace.

Examining the Impact of Pandemic Stressors on Parental Stress in Sub‐Saharan Africa: A Double ABC‐X and Moderated Mediation Model Analysis of Family Mechanisms

ABSTRACTThis study investigated family mechanisms through which pandemic stressors affect parental stress using the Double ABC‐X model of family stress and adaptation. Specifically, this study examines the moderated mediation effects to test the conditional indirect influence of a moderating variable (i.e., family resilience beliefs) on the relationship between a predictor (i.e., stressor pile‐up) and an outcome variable (i.e., stress) through potential mediators (i.e., family satisfaction and relationship satisfaction). The analytic sample included 9269 participants from 10 sub‐Saharan countries. The findings do not support the hypothesis predicting a second‐stage moderating mediation model where family resiliency beliefs would moderate the second‐stage indirect paths of family satisfaction and relationship satisfaction, creating conditional indirect effects. The findings suggest that interventions should involve community‐based programmes that emphasize family support and access to resources while recognizing the complex interplay between family resilience beliefs, cultural values and beliefs of African families.

Validity and Reliability Study of the Turkish Form of the Family Support Scale for the Older People

Validity and Reliability Study of the Turkish Form of the Family Support Scale for the Older People

Self‐Determination Skills in Ageing Women With Intellectual Disabilities

ABSTRACTBackgroundWomen with intellectual disabilities confront distinct challenges as they age, compounded by cognitive and adaptive constraints. These challenges encompass heightened health risks, barriers to social support and susceptibility to violence, underscoring the critical role of self‐determination in enhancing their quality of life.MethodThis quantitative study utilised a scale based on the Functional Model of Self‐Determination to assess self‐determination levels in 218 Chilean women aged 45 to 80 with intellectual disabilities. The research also explored potential personal and environmental factors influencing these levels.FindingsEmployed participants and those in supportive family environments demonstrated higher self‐determination levels. Moreover, women without mental health issues exhibited advanced skills in self‐regulation, empowerment and self‐realisation. Significant disparities were noted based on varying levels of intellectual disability, types of support received and socioeconomic status, highlighting the necessity for tailored and diversified support systems.ConclusionDeveloping personalised support programs that address individual and contextual differences is crucial. Despite limitations, this study emphasises the urgency for inclusive public policies aimed at eliminating socioeconomic and cultural barriers, thereby fostering environments conducive to community engagement and autonomous decision‐making.

Current investigation of neurocognitive functioning in preschool children with cancer: A cross-sectional study from western China

Background and aims Cancer and its treatments may cause neurocognitive impairments in preschool children, but there is limited research on the neurocognitive outcomes of this population. This study, which assessed the neurocognitive function of preschool children with cancer and analyzed various influencing factors of neurocognitive functioning, is of significant importance. We aimed to investigate neurocognitive function and related risk factors in preschool children with cancer to inform preventive and intervention strategies. Methods From September 2023 to May 2024, we recruited 100 preschool children with cancer. The Chinese version of the Ages & Stages Questionnaires, the Spence Preschool Anxiety Scale Chinese Version, and the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children were used to collected data. Binary logistic stepwise regression analysis was used to explore the influencing factors of neurocognitive function in preschool children with cancer. Results 49% of the preschool children with cancer had abnormalities in at least one neurocognitive dimension. The majority of children had abnormalities in gross motor dimension, accounting for 30%, which was related to age and frequency of participation in neurocognitive activities. Communication dimension was related to father’s education level, dietary habit, and frequency of participation in activities. Fine motor dimension was associated with age, sex, and father’s education level. Problem-solving dimension was associated with age and dietary habit. Personal-social dimension was related to age and radiotherapy. Conclusions Nearly half of preschool children with cancer experienced neurocognitive impairment. The Chinese version of the Ages & Stages Questionnaires is a simple and effective tool for screening children with possible neurocognitive impairment. It was found that children’s neurocognitive function was significantly influenced by family environment, dietary habit, cognitive activities, and cancer treatment. Therefore, it is recommended to strengthen family and social support, and to formulate personalized intervention such as cognitive therapy and dietary adjustment based on children’s age and family background, which are important for promoting neurocognitive recovery.

QOL-03. CAREGIVER PROGRAM IN NEURO-ONCOLOGY: UCSF EXPERIENCE CARING FOR MORE THAN 4,000 CAREGIVERS OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS

Abstract BACKGROUND Caregivers of patients with primary brain tumors are at high risk for distress as they navigate caring for their loved one with both a cancer diagnosis and neurologic disorder. The UCSF Gordon Murray Neuro-Oncology Program, the first of its kind, addresses caregiver needs and is fully integrated into clinical care, providing personalized care and programming to address common challenges and foster resilience. The Program includes a nurse, administrator, and social worker. Referrals occur at the initial clinic appointment; from clinical staff; and caregivers of patients with GBM receive proactive outreach. Dedicated programming provides educational materials around common concerns and building community through support groups, annual retreats and family camp. We report our practical experience of the Program serving over 4,000 caregivers. METHODS Total number of individual caregivers were included from 01/2014 – 12/2023. Detailed demographics were extrapolated during clinical interviews from a subset. Caregiver concerns and interventions were extracted from the medical records between 01/2017 – 12/2023. RESULTS The Program serves an average of 400 caregivers and 800 encounters annually. Demographics revealed 66% females; 77% between 41-64 years of age; 60% spouse; 89% working full time; and 30% with children at home. The most common concerns were informational (42%), followed by emotional (25%), and practical (23%). Examples of informational concerns included desire for resources, understanding treatment plan/side effects, and patient behavioral changes. Emotionally, they feel overwhelmed, uncertain, and sad. Practical concerns included physically caring for patients and issues around medical insurance, disability, and finances. Most common intervention was providing emotional support (40%). CONCLUSIONS Caregivers of patients with primary brain tumors are at high risk of distress and have unique needs. Our practical 10 year experience of a dedicated, fully integrated, caregiver program highlights real world concerns of caregivers and identifies opportunities to develop tailored interventions to address these needs.

Experiences and psychological issues affecting parents of children born with atypical genitalia in India

Abstract Background Parents of children with differences of sex development (DSD) are known to suffer from psychological distress at the time of diagnosis and thereafter. We analyzed the prevalence of anxiety and depression in Indian parents of children with DSD and its associated risk factors, as well as their experiences, perceptions and expectations from the healthcare system. Methods This cross-sectional study included parents of children aged ≤6 years with atypical genitalia. Data was collected through face-to-face semi-structured interview using specially designed questionnaire. Depression and anxiety have been assessed using PHQ9 (Patient health questionnaire) and GAD-7 (Generalized anxiety disorder scale), respectively. Results The current mean age of the 43 children (46,XY=26, 46,XX=16 and chromosomal DSD=1) was 36.5 ± 21.4 months with a median age of diagnosis of 5 months (range- 0–60 months). 68 parents (35 mothers and 33 fathers) were interviewed. The score was above the cut-off for clinically significant depression in 27.2 and 25.7 % of the fathers and mothers, respectively; and for clinically significant anxiety in 15.1 and 28.6 % of the fathers and mothers, respectively. The most significant factor associated with psychological distress was rearing a boy with lower EMS in fathers and lower literacy levels (with higher perception of stigma) in mothers. Absence of family support was associated with high levels of distress in both parents. Conclusions There is a high level of depression and anxiety amongst Indian parents of children born with atypical genitalia and requirement for psychological support and counseling.

Financial Challenges Faced by IELTS Test-Takers in Sylhet, Bangladesh: An Exploration of Family Support and Assistance

This study explores the sources of financial assistance available to IELTS test-takers, the motivating factors for taking the test, and the influence of family background on these decisions. The research has adopted a tabular analysis study design to collect the required data and information about IELTS test-takers. Quantitative techniques were applied to gather the necessary primary data and information. This study also adopted In-depth Interview (IDI), Case Studies, and Document Review techniques. Data were collected in Sylhet through coaching centers and an online Google form between June and October 2024, specifically from six centers in Modina Market, Amborkhana, Zindabazar, and Uposhohor. The questionnaire was distributed to 190 individuals, comprising 132 participants currently preparing for a retake. After excluding data of 14 participants due to missing information, 176 responses were analyzed. MS Excel and STATA were employed for data classification and interpretation. Authors used MS Excel for data entry, data cleaning, and tabular analysis and STATA-16 for summary statistics. Female participation in IELTS test preparation is impressive and closely comparable to that of male participants. Additionally, a higher number of students take the IELTS exam in Sylhet district compared to the other three districts. Most of the time, 76.70% of the participants’ family (Parents/Brother/Sister) covered their whole cost of IELTS test and Family members often play a key role in encouraging individuals to pursue the test. IELTS test-takers from low-income families face significant difficulties in covering tuition fees and other expenses related to their preparation, coaching such as the cost of academic materials and center fees. The findings reveal that many test-takers struggle to afford the costs of preparing for the exam. As a student in a low-income country, Bangladesh, many individuals face challenges in covering expenses beyond necessities like food and shelter. Therefore, the study recommends scholarship opportunities and special consideration for participants who are facing financial challenges. The researchers and policy makers of IELTS test, should give a focus to their test fee which will be helpful for students of a developing country.

The Resident Scholars Program for Workforce Diversity: A Qualitative Study About Supporting Family Medicine Abortion Providers

Background and Objectives: While workforce diversity helps mitigate health inequities, few initiatives support prospective abortion providers who are underrepresented in medicine (URiM). To address this issue, Reproductive Health Education in Family Medicine established the Resident Scholars Program for Workforce Diversity (RSPWD), a year-long program for URiM and other Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) residents committed to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) provision. Program elements include: (a) mentorship by BIPOC family physicians; (b) virtual didactic sessions about SRH integration into primary care, advocacy, leadership, reproductive justice, and patient-centered care; (3) conference sponsorship; and (4) community-building among residents and mentors. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study with the program’s first cohort of residents and mentors to examine perspectives about program successes and needed improvements. We used a semistructured interview guide along with a direct contact analysis approach. Results: We interviewed eight scholars and four mentors. From the interviews, we gleaned data on three main themes: (a) value of mentorship, (b) importance of community, and (c) program improvement suggestions. Scholars expressed appreciation for SRH mentorship from BIPOC mentors who had lived experiences similar to their own, noted the mentorship’s importance for career-building, and spoke positively of their sense of safe community among all program participants. Respondents shared suggestions for improved scheduling and requested better guidance for navigating the mentee–mentor relationship. Conclusions: The RSPWD success is reflected in the enthusiasm and gratitude for the program and the resulting mentorship and community that fostered supportive personal and professional relationships, including career opportunities. When considering the importance yet dearth of workforce diversification in family medicine, this program offers a promising model for supporting a more diverse and representative future SRH workforce that may apply to other family medicine clinical niches.

The lived experiences and unmet needs of prostate and colorectal male cancer survivors in rural Virginia: A qualitative study

AbstractBackgroundThe goal of this study was to gain an in‐depth understanding about the lived experiences and unmet needs of rural male cancer survivors.MethodsFocus groups were conducted with male survivors of prostate (N = 14) and colorectal cancers (N = 10), from rural Virginia. Demographic and clinical information were collected via surveys. A focus group guide contained questions about needs, lifestyles, and social networks of rural male cancer survivors. Focus group data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis guidelines.ResultsFour primary themes emerged from the data: (1) contending with health problems, (2) quality and availability of health care services, (3) coping strategies to navigate survivorship, and (4) advocating for cancer prevention. Survivors had to contend with physical and emotional problems, which were a result of their cancer treatments. Due to their rural location, survivors had difficulty accessing health care services and had a limited understanding of the cancer‐related resources that existed in their counties. Family support, religiosity and acceptance served as important coping strategies. Many felt strongly about promoting cancer‐related education and awareness.ConclusionThe lived experiences and unmet needs of rural male cancer survivors comprised several challenges, which included health problems and lack of health care access. Coping mechanisms comprised reliance on familial bonds and religion. Findings from this study reveal the need for tailored interventions to target the health care, psychosocial, and informational needs of rural male cancer survivors.

DIREITOS HUMANOS E O AMPARO AS FAMÍLIAS VÍTIMAS DE CRIMES CONTRA A VIDA

The scope of this study is to address human rights – a central aspect of any legal reflection, after all, all rights have an anthropocentric nature – in line with the social and legal support of families whose lives were cut short by violence. In particular, the families of victims of crimes against life. In the wake of this process, the research problem consists of asking how to strengthen means of social and legal protection for “those who remain”, that is, the relatives of victims of completed homicides. The general objective is to reflect on crimes against life from a different perspective of criminal protection: one that focuses not on the life that was cut short, but on the life that, with difficulty, must continue. Hence the importance of a fair investigation, trial, instruction and judgment to ensure that the truth is reconstructed and clarified for the relatives. The methodology used consists of a bibliographic review, carried out in a critical, systemic and integrative manner of the relevant literature, based on an inductive method, explanatory research and a qualitative approach. First, the article discusses the dignity of the human person as a legal- philosophical value. Second, it recognizes the protection of the legal asset “life” as played by criminal law. Third, it analyzes ways to socially and legally protect families of homicide victims. As a result, it is established that the social and legal protection of families of homicide victims requires an integrated and multifaceted approach. First, the dignity of the human person, as a fundamental value, must be central to policies and practices aimed at these families, ensuring that their integrity and rights are preserved and respected throughout the entire judicial process. Second, it is imperative that criminal law, when protecting the legal asset “life”, is not limited to punishing the perpetrator, but also considers the lasting impact on survivors and seeks to offer ongoing support. In addition, the research showed that, in order to strengthen social and legal protection, it is necessary to implement effective mechanisms of psychological, social and legal support, which go beyond palliative measures.