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Aghaei A, Herran K, Fanaei SA, Khalili M, Jayadev P. Lived experiences of neurofibromatosis type 1 patients: Social life, stigma, and intervention strategies. J Health Psychol 2024; 29:811-824. [PMID: 37933158 DOI: 10.1177/13591053231208619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a neurogenetic disorder associated with visual-spatial problems, executive dysfunction, and language deficits, making patients experience social isolation, stigma, anxiety, and depression. Here, we explored NF1 patients' lived experiences by conducting semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 21 NF1 patients and 16 care providers. The thematic analysis uncovered dimensions of NF1 patients' social lives at different ecological levels, including their relationships with family, friends, teachers, coworkers, providers, and society. Positive dimensions of NF1 patients' social life (e.g. familial support and sacrifice, responsibility, and self-sufficiency, supportive friends, and professors) counter negative dimensions (e.g. the vulnerability in sexual relationships, social interactions, discriminatory professors, misconceptions about abilities, appearance bias, internalized and social stigma, violence, and low self-esteem). Adaptive strategies used or suggested by NF1 patients at personal (e.g. supportive network, positive reframing, acceptance of their bodies) and social levels (e.g. psychological support, group therapy, public awareness, and governmental support) were identified.
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2
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Psychosocial implications of rare genetic skin diseases affecting appearance on daily life experiences, emotional state, self-perception and quality of life in adults: a systematic review. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2023; 18:39. [PMID: 36823650 PMCID: PMC9951542 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-023-02629-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the beginning of human genetic research, there are very few publications sharing insights of the negative impact of rare genetic skin diseases (RGSD) on patients' experiences. This systematic review assessed the psychosocial implications of these conditions in terms of daily life experiences, emotional state, self-perception, and Quality of Life (QoL). METHODOLOGY A systematic review was carried out on albinism, neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), birthmarks and inherited ichthyosis. The PubMed, Scopus, PsycArticle, PsychInfo, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, and SOCindex databases were queried. Inclusion criteria were adult patients with one of these RGSDs. Simple descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis were conducted to summarize the main results reported by the authors. RESULTS Of the 9987 articles retrieved, 48 articles were included: albinism (16), NF1 (16), inherited ichthyosis (10), birthmarks (6). The majority of the studies on albinism were conducted in Africa. Twenty-seven studies quantitatively assessed diverse psychological parameters: 13 showed a significant impact of the disease on QoL, five on emotional state, two on self-representation and two others on psychiatric comorbidities. Disease severity and visibility were good predictors of QoL (except for albinism). Body image and appearance concerns were also associated with QoL and emotional state. The 19 qualitative studies highlighted recurring themes across each of these diseases: discrimination and stigma during childhood and adolescence, discomfort in social interactions, guilt of transmission, the importance of social support from family and friends, altered daily life functioning, altered romantic and sex life, limited academic and professional aspirations, lack of interest and support from the medical field, and the unpredictability of the evolution of the disease. The only two mixed-method studies in this review were unable to contribute to any inferential analyses but could corroborate some of the qualitative findings. CONCLUSION These results showed that RGSDs have a significant impact on different aspects of patients' lives. This review has demonstrated that there is a real need for support systems for patients with these diseases. Such systems should be developed to provide them with necessary information and to guide them through an appropriate care pathway.
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3
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Demarest S, Marsh R, Treat L, Fisher MP, Dempsey A, Junaid M, Downs J, Leonard H, Benke T, Morris MA. The Lived Experience of Parents' Receiving the Diagnosis of CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder for Their Child. J Child Neurol 2022; 37:451-460. [PMID: 35196159 DOI: 10.1177/08830738221076285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), a severe developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, is being diagnosed earlier with improved access to genetic testing, but this may also have unanticipated impacts on parents' experience receiving the diagnosis. This study explores the lived experience of parents receiving a diagnosis of CDD for their child using mixed methods. Thirty-seven semistructured interviews were conducted with parents of children with a diagnosis of CDD, which were coded and analyzed to identify themes. Grief was a nearly universal theme expressed among participants. Parents of younger children discussed grief in the context of receiving the diagnosis, whereas parents of older children indicated they were at different stages along the grieving journey when they received the diagnosis. Parents with less understanding of their child's prognosis (poorer prognostic awareness) connected their grief to receiving the diagnosis as this brought a clear understanding of the prognosis. Several themes suggested what providers did well to improve the diagnostic experience for parents, much of which aligns with existing literature around how to provide serious news. Additionally, parents identified long-term benefits of having a diagnosis for their child's medical problems. Although interview data were concordant with a survey of parents' diagnostic experience from a large international cohort, most participants in this study were relatively affluent, white mothers and further research is needed to better understand if other groups of parents have a different diagnostic experience. This study gives context of parental experience that providers should be aware of when conveying new genetic diagnoses to families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Demarest
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research Science, University of Colorado.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado.,2932Children's Hospital Colorado
| | - Rebekah Marsh
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research Science, University of Colorado
| | - Lauren Treat
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado.,2932Children's Hospital Colorado
| | - Michael P Fisher
- Department of Health Sciences, 1492Towson University, Towson, MD, USA
| | - Amanda Dempsey
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research Science, University of Colorado.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado.,2932Children's Hospital Colorado
| | - Mohammed Junaid
- 117610Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jenny Downs
- 117610Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Helen Leonard
- 117610Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tim Benke
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research Science, University of Colorado.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado.,Department of Medicine.,Department of Pharmacology
| | - Megan A Morris
- Adult and Child Consortium for Health Outcomes Research Science, University of Colorado.,Department of Medicine
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4
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Foji S, Mohammadi E, Sanagoo A, Jouybari L. The Patients' Experiences of Burden of Neurofibromatosis: A Qualitative Study. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY RESEARCH 2021; 26:342-348. [PMID: 34422615 PMCID: PMC8344627 DOI: 10.4103/ijnmr.ijnmr_178_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a common autosomal disorder; the criteria for the diagnosis of NF1 includes café au lait spots, freckling, and Neurofibromas (NF). Skin symptoms have a major impact on patients' Quality of Life (QOL) but little is known about the burden of the disease on patients. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of patients with NF. Materials and Methods: Using purposive sampling, 20 participants were enrolled in this qualitative content analysis study. The study was carried out between 2019 and 2020. Unstructured interviews and field notes were used to gather data. Data collection was stopped when data saturation was achieved. Results: Data analysis revealed 14 subcategories and 4 categories including “failing and falling behind in life”, “deprivation and restriction”, “social isolation”, and “ineffective adaptation to the disease”, which indicate the perception of patients with NF. Conclusions: In addition to the physical burden due to physical complications and problems, NF imposes a high degree of psychological and social burden on patients causing mental conflicts, which in turn results in them failing and falling behind in life. These findings illustrate the need to develop strategies and use multidisciplinary approaches to support patients, and thus to reduce the burden of NF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Foji
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Eesa Mohammadi
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Sanagoo
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Leila Jouybari
- Nursing Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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5
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van Dalen M, Leemreis WH, Kraaij V, De Laat PCJ, Pasmans SGMA, Versnel SL, Koudstaal MJ, Hillegers MHJ, Utens EMWJ, Okkerse JME. Parenting Children With a Cleft Lip With or Without Palate or a Visible Infantile Hemangioma: A Cross-Sectional Study of Distress and Parenting Stress. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2021; 58:1536-1546. [PMID: 33583213 PMCID: PMC8586175 DOI: 10.1177/1055665621993298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Parents of children with a medical condition and a visible difference can experience challenging situations. We evaluated distress and parenting stress in parents of children with a cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL±P) or a visible infantile hemangioma (IH). Setting: This cross-sectional study took place in an academic medical hospital in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Participants: Three-hundred nine parents (mean age = 40.30, 56.00% mothers) of children with CL±P and 91 parents (mean age = 36.40, 58.24% mothers) of children with IH. Main Outcome Measures: The Dutch version of the Parenting Stress Index – Short Form and the subscales Anxiety, Depression, and Hostility of the Symptom Checklist – 90. Results: One sample t tests and mixed linear modeling were used. On average, parents of children with CL±P and of children with IH showed significantly lower parenting stress compared to normative data. Anxiety was significantly lower in parents of children with CL±P than that in the norm group. Visibility of the condition was not related to distress or parenting stress. Child behavioral problems were positively related to parenting stress, depression, and hostility. Conclusions: Parents of children with CL±P and IH report less distress and parenting stress compared to the norm. On average, these parents seem well adjusted. A practical implication is to monitor parents of children with behavioral problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- M van Dalen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - W H Leemreis
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - V Kraaij
- Department of Clinical Psychology, 4496Leiden University, the Netherlands
| | - P C J De Laat
- Department of Pediatrics, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S G M A Pasmans
- Department of Dermatology, Centre of Pediatric Dermatology, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S L Versnel
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery, The Dutch Craniofacial Centre, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M J Koudstaal
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Dutch Craniofacial Centre, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M H J Hillegers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - E M W J Utens
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Research Institute of Child Development and Education, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Academic Center for Child Psychiatry Levvel, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J M E Okkerse
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, 97759Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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6
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Gee C, Maskell J, Newcombe P, Kimble R, Williamson H. Australian health professionals' perspectives of psychosocial adjustment to visible differences: A qualitative analysis of pediatric populations. Body Image 2020; 33:13-26. [PMID: 32086188 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2020.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Living with a visible difference (e.g., disfigurement) can compromise a child's psychological wellbeing. Although some children can adjust well, others can develop a range of appearance-related issues such as social anxiety, low self-esteem, and body dissatisfaction. However, current research fails to confirm what factors contribute to appearance-related distress, and what factors buffer the consequences of living with a visible difference. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 Australian specialist health professionals who care for children with visible differences. Interviews explored the type of appearance-related psychosocial concerns presented to a pediatric hospital, perspectives on the impact of appearance-related distress, as well as factors and processes that health professionals perceive influence adjustment. Data were subjected to inductive thematic analysis. Rich evidence was offered by health professionals, which demonstrated deep understanding of the psychological wellbeing of their patients. Three themes were identified: Mind, Body, and Soul; Stages of Life; and Individual Differences. Findings highlighted the complexity of appearance-related distress, with individual differences in adjustment, and the powerful impact it can have on a child's short and long-term psychosocial wellbeing. The importance of reaching consensus in the conceptualisation and measurement of psychological wellbeing is stressed, and key domains associated with adjustment are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Gee
- Centre for Children's Burns and Trauma Research, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Level 7, 62 Graham Street, South Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia.
| | - Jessica Maskell
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Social Work Department, 1 Hospital Boulevard, Southport, Queensland, 4217, Australia.
| | - Peter Newcombe
- Institute for Teaching and Learning Innovation, Level 3, Building 17, Staff House Road, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia.
| | - Roy Kimble
- Centre for Children's Burns and Trauma Research, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Level 7, 62 Graham Street, South Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia; Pegg Leditschke Children's Burns Centre, Queensland Children's Hospital, Level 5, 501 Stanley Street, South Brisbane, Queensland, 4101, Australia.
| | - Heidi Williamson
- Centre for Appearance Research, University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Bristol, BS16 1QY, United Kingdom.
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7
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Solem EP, Primiano M, McQuillen MP, Zak Goelz M. Factors associated with parental knowledge of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1): Parental affected status and genetic counseling. J Genet Couns 2020; 29:1151-1158. [PMID: 32196829 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic condition characterized by various cutaneous, neurological and psychological manifestations. The present study examined whether parental knowledge of NF1 is associated with a parent's NF1 status, affected or unaffected, and exposure to genetic counseling. Parents of children with NF1 were invited to complete an online survey answering true or false and multiple-choice questions to evaluate their overall knowledge of NF1. The study included 274 respondents, of which NF1 knowledge scores were significantly higher for unaffected parents (p < .001), and for parents who reported previously meeting with a genetic counselor (p < .001). Items pertaining to NF1-related cancer were least likely to be answered correctly. The results of the current study revealed lower overall NF1 knowledge in affected parents and knowledge gaps identifying areas where focused NF1 education may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily P Solem
- Department of Genomic Medicine and Pediatric Genetics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Michelle Primiano
- Clinical Cancer Genetics Services, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Marshall P McQuillen
- Department of Biology and Environmental Studies, Long Island University, Brookville, New York
| | - Monika Zak Goelz
- Department of Biology and Environmental Studies, Long Island University, Brookville, New York
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8
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Pierre-Louis C, Heinhuis T, Riklin E, Vranceanu AM. Challenges associated with parenting youth with neurofibromatosis: A qualitative investigation. Am J Med Genet A 2019; 176:959-968. [PMID: 29575626 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Parents of children with the neurofibromatoses (NF; neurofibromatosis 1, neurofibromatosis 2, and schwannomatosis) are at an increased risk for emotional and physical health problems. This study aimed to determine parents' perceptions of stressors associated with parenting a child with NF in order to inform the development of a resiliency intervention. We conducted three live video semi structured focus groups with parents of youth with NF (N = 30), which were subsequently transcribed and coded using qualitative content analysis. Parents reported heightened stress associated with the child's educational, medical, and social needs, as well as concerns about their child's physical and mental health. They also reported stress associated with managing finances, multiple medical appointments, role challenges (i.e., being a parent or partner), and managing the uncertainty/unpredictability of their child's NF diagnosis. These stressors reportedly affected employment status (i.e., work scale backs), relationships (i.e., social, familial, with partner, other children), and the parents' physical and mental health. All participants expressed interest in a mind body program aimed at improving resiliency by teaching coping skills (e.g., mindfulness, adaptive thinking, positive psychology skills) and enhancing social support. Results show parents' enthusiasm for a resiliency intervention targeting stress associated with parenting a child with NF, and provide valuable information for the content of the intervention and its delivery modality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tessa Heinhuis
- Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Riklin
- Department of Psychology, Fordham University, New York, New York
| | - Ana-Maria Vranceanu
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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9
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Rietman AB, van Helden H, Both PH, Taal W, Legerstee JS, van Staa A, Moll HA, Oostenbrink R, van Eeghen AM. Worries and needs of adults and parents of adults with neurofibromatosis type 1. Am J Med Genet A 2018; 176:1150-1160. [PMID: 29681082 PMCID: PMC5947156 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.38680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a neurocutaneous disorder associated with lifelong tumor growth propensity and neurocognitive impairments. Although follow-up of adults with NF1 often focuses on tumor growth, follow-up of cognitive or social problems and other NF1-related comorbidity is often not a part of standardized care. In order to provide optimal care services for these patients, we explored the care needs of adults with NF1. A qualitative study was performed using semi-structured group interviews, exploring worries and care needs in medical, psychological, and socioeconomic domains, also focusing on the transition from pediatric to adult care. Four focus groups were conducted, including young adult patients, patients over age 30, and parents of young adult patients. In total, 30 patients and 12 parents participated. Data were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by computerized thematic analysis. Themes were organized using the World Health Organization International classification of functioning, disability, and health (ICF). Results indicated many and diverse worries and care needs both during the transitional period and in adulthood in medical, mental health, and socioeconomic domains. Worries could be categorized into 13 themes. Parents reported high stress levels and difficulties with their parental role. Participants expressed the need for more information, access to NF1 experts, daily living support, care for mental health and socioeconomic participation, and closer communication between health-care providers. In conclusion, worries and needs of patients and parents underline the importance of multidisciplinary follow-up and continuity of care during and after the transitional period. Additionally, parental stress requires more attention from care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre B. Rietman
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/PsychologyErasmus Medical Center‐Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Hanneke van Helden
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Intellectual Disability Medicine, Department of General PracticeErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Pauline H. Both
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Intellectual Disability Medicine, Department of General PracticeErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Walter Taal
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Neuro‐Oncology/NeurologyErasmus Medical Center‐Cancer InstituteRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Jeroen S. Legerstee
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/PsychologyErasmus Medical Center‐Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - AnneLoes van Staa
- Research Center Innovations in CareRotterdam University of Applied SciencesRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Henriette A. Moll
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of General PediatricsErasmus Medical Center‐Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Rianne Oostenbrink
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of General PediatricsErasmus Medical Center‐Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Agnies M. van Eeghen
- ENCORE Expertise Center for Neurodevelopmental DisordersErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Intellectual Disability Medicine, Department of General PracticeErasmus Medical CenterRotterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of General PediatricsErasmus Medical Center‐Sophia Children's HospitalRotterdamThe Netherlands
- De Hartekamp GroepCare and Service Center for People with Intellectual DisabilitiesHaarlemThe Netherlands
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10
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Martin S, Struemph KL, Poblete A, Toledo-Tamula MA, Lockridge R, Roderick MC, Wolters P. An Internet support group for parents of children with neurofibromatosis type 1: a qualitative analysis. J Community Genet 2018; 9:327-334. [PMID: 29500624 DOI: 10.1007/s12687-018-0360-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Parents of children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a rare genetic condition, are at risk for emotional distress. While they may benefit from support groups, they may find it difficult to access support. We conducted an 8-week Internet support group (ISG) with 33 parents (29 mothers, 4 fathers) of children with NF1. Transcripts were evaluated using inductive thematic analysis to determine parental needs and concerns; a process and content theme were identified, with each containing codes and subcodes. In terms of process, parents utilized the ISG to seek out information, share information and experiences, and provide and receive emotional support. Common content codes included medical concerns, psychosocial/cognitive development, and accessing NF1 community resources. These concerns highlight the importance of providing parents with reliable information about their child's condition, providing multidisciplinary support to the children with NF1 and their families, and encouraging involvement in the NF1 community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Staci Martin
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9030 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 20892-8200, USA.
| | - Kari L Struemph
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9030 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 20892-8200, USA
| | - Alyssa Poblete
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9030 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 20892-8200, USA
| | - Mary Anne Toledo-Tamula
- Clinical Research Directorate/Clinical Monitoring Research Program, Leidos Biomedical Research Inc., NCI Campus at Frederick, Frederick, MD, 21702, USA
| | - Robin Lockridge
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9030 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 20892-8200, USA
| | - Marie Claire Roderick
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9030 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 20892-8200, USA
| | - Pamela Wolters
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 9030 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 20892-8200, USA
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11
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Draucker CB, Nutakki K, Varni JW, Swigonski NL. The health-related quality of life of children, adolescents, and young adults with neurofibromatosis type 1 and their families: Analysis of narratives. J SPEC PEDIATR NURS 2017; 22. [PMID: 28198162 DOI: 10.1111/jspn.12174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Provide an in-depth description of the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in youth diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and their families. DESIGN AND METHODS Data were drawn from qualitative interviews conducted for a larger study aimed at developing the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™) NF1 module. RESULTS Youth with NF1 and their families experience a wide range of concerns related to HRQoL due to the varied symptom expression and uncertain trajectory of the disorder. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Pediatric nurses should routinely assess for HRQoL in this population and develop strategies tailored to those concerns that require intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Burke Draucker
- Angela Barron McBride Professor of Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, Indiana University School of Nursing, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Kavitha Nutakki
- Research Associate, Children's Health Services Research, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - James W Varni
- Professor Emeritus, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, College of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Nancy L Swigonski
- Professor, Department of Pediatrics; Professor, Fairbanks School of Public Health; Affiliate Scientist, Regenstrief Institute, Inc.; Children's Health Services Research, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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12
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Feasibility and Preliminary Efficacy of an Internet Support Group for Parents of a Child with Neurofibromatosis Type 1: a Pilot Study. J Genet Couns 2016; 26:576-585. [PMID: 27822877 DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-0031-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This pilot study investigated the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of an Internet Support Group (ISG) for parents of children with NF1. Eligible parents were recruited by email and completed baseline questionnaires assessing social support, self-efficacy, depression, and anxiety. The ISG involved eight weekly 90-min chat sessions and a discussion forum open 24 h/day for 8 weeks. Follow-up measures were completed immediately post-intervention and 3 months later. Parents from 33 families (29 mothers, 4 fathers) completed baseline measures. Over half of parents (52 %) rated their child's disease severity as mild, 33 % moderate, and 15 % severe. Among 21 parents who completed post-intervention measures, ratings of perceived emotional (p = .0008) and informational (p = .0003) support increased. There were no significant changes in self-efficacy, depression, or anxiety (ps > .05). The mean satisfaction rating was moderately high (7.6/10; range 4-10). Some parents commented that the chat sessions were at inconvenient times, which may have limited participation. Preliminary evidence in this small sample of parents suggests that ISGs may be a feasible and potentially efficacious method of providing support to parents of children with NF1. Having multiple weekly chat sessions held at various days and times may improve accessibility and participation. Clinicians are encouraged to help parents access online support resources.
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The Role of Appearance in Adolescents’ Experiences of Neurofibromatosis Type 1: A Survey of Young People and Parents. J Genet Couns 2016; 25:1054-62. [DOI: 10.1007/s10897-016-9944-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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