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Chan WCH, Yu CTK, Leung GSM, Lin MKY, Leung MMM, Kwok DKS, Wu JKW. Developing a storybook package for bereaved siblings: a pilot study of the effectiveness for enhancing the perceived knowledge and confidence of health and social care professionals in Hong Kong. DEATH STUDIES 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38907952 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2024.2369889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
A pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted to examine the effectiveness of a storybook package for enhancing the perceived knowledge and confidence of health and social care professionals in working with bereaved child siblings and their parents before and after the loss. Open-ended questions were asked to collect feedback, and thematic analyses were conducted to generate the themes. Quantitative findings provided preliminary but not strong evidence of its effectiveness, but qualitative findings showed that participants perceived their knowledge about supporting bereaved siblings and their parents was enhanced and considered the storybook package a useful tool for facilitating their practice. Participants also reflected on how real and specific the stories in the storybook should be. This study is the first step in developing an evidence-based practice tool for health and social care professionals. Future studies are required to further examine its effectiveness for practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wallace Chi Ho Chan
- Department of Social Work, Education, Community Wellbeing, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | | | | | | | - Miranda Mei Mui Leung
- Retired Advanced Practice Nurse, Pediatric Palliative Care Team, Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | - Denis Ka Shaw Kwok
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Andriessen K, Snir J, Krysinska K, Rickwood D, Pirkis J. Supporting Adolescents Bereaved by Suicide or Other Traumatic Death: The Views of Counselors. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024:302228241246031. [PMID: 38581106 DOI: 10.1177/00302228241246031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Adolescents bereaved by suicide and other traumatic death may experience strong grief reactions and increased risks of mental health problems and suicidal behaviour. As timely access to professional help can be critical, it is essential to understand how counselors perceive suicide bereavement in adolescents and how they work with this population. This study aimed to examine the perspectives of counselors (N = 34). Eleven participated in an individual semi-structured interview and 23 others in group interviews. Thematic analysis yielded three themes: (1) Building a relationship with the bereaved adolescent, (2) Offering support tailored to the needs of the grieving adolescent, and (3) Offering strengths-based and sustainable support. Counselors' skills, attitudes, content-related expertise, and approaching the adolescent's grief within their developmental context were deemed essential for building a therapeutic relationship and offering viable support. The findings may inform good practices in counseling bereaved adolescents to facilitate positive mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Andriessen
- Centre for Mental Health and Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica Snir
- Centre for Mental Health and Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Karolina Krysinska
- Centre for Mental Health and Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Debra Rickwood
- Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Jane Pirkis
- Centre for Mental Health and Community Wellbeing, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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3
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Hanauer C, Telaar B, Rosner R, Doering BK. The efficacy of psychosocial interventions for grief symptoms in bereaved children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2024; 350:164-173. [PMID: 38218256 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present meta-analysis investigates the efficacy of psychosocial interventions in bereaved children and adolescents. METHOD We conducted a systematic review searching PsycINFO, PsycARTICLES, PubMed, MEDLINE, PSYNDEX, Web of Science, CINAHL and ERIC. Random-effects meta-analyses examined the effect of interventions on symptoms of grief, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression in controlled and uncontrolled studies. RESULTS We included 39 studies (n = 5.578). Post-treatment, preventive interventions demonstrated a significant effect on grief (uncontrolled studies: g = 0.29, 95%CI [0.09;0.48]; controlled studies: g = 0.18, 95%CI [0.03;0.32]). For symptoms of PTSD and depression, only uncontrolled preventive studies yielded significant effects (PTSD: g = 0.24, 95%CI [0.11;0.36]; depression: g = 0.28, 95%CI [0.10;0.45]). Interventions targeting youth with increased grief-related distress demonstrated a significant effect in uncontrolled studies on grief (g = 1.25, 95%CI [0.94;1.57]), PTSD (g = 1.33, 95%CI [0.85;1.82]) and depression (g = 0.61, 95%CI [0.45;0.77]). A controlled effect size could only be calculated for PTSD symptoms (g = 0.71, 95%CI [0.15;1.27]). LIMITATIONS Interventions varied widely, contributing to high heterogeneity. Only a small number of studies with mostly limited quality could be analysed. CONCLUSIONS Psychosocial interventions may ameliorate grief symptoms in bereaved youth, especially when targeting youth with elevated grief distress. However, the effects observed in uncontrolled studies are substantially reduced when controlling for the natural course of bereavement. Given the increasing number of children worldwide bereaved through ongoing crises, research on interventions is surprisingly sparse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Hanauer
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Germany
| | - Berit Telaar
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Germany
| | - Rita Rosner
- Department of Psychology, Catholic University Eichstaett-Ingolstadt, Germany
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Dias N, Floyd A, Ramkumar R, Horvick S, Haberstroh A, Hendricks-Ferguson VL, Fasolino T. A Review of Parental Bereavement Interventions: Implications for Clinical Practice, Research, and Policy. J Hosp Palliat Nurs 2024; 26:60-67. [PMID: 38227778 DOI: 10.1097/njh.0000000000001016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The untimely death of a child is an incredibly traumatic experience for parents and their loved ones. It uproots every aspect of their life, leading the bereaved parents to be far more likely to have poorer physical and mental health outcomes. This traumatic form of bereavement should have comprehensive grief-focused, high-quality interventions available for parents and extended family members. The purpose of this rapid review was to explore and describe the bereavement interventions available for parents and family that have been published within the past 5 years. Records identified 123 full-text articles that were reviewed, and 14 of those were included for data extraction and synthesis, using Cochrane Rapid Reviews Methods Group with the addition of keyword searches. The 14 articles were analyzed by evaluating description of bereaved parents, accessibility of interventions, who delivered interventions, and the type and delivery time of interventions. Four types of interventions were identified, including Web-based, community-based, hospital-based, and psychotherapy interventions. This rapid review has implications for clinical practice, research, and health care policy that can increase the availability of support and quality of interventions for bereaved parents and family members.
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Høeg BL, Guldin MB, Høgh J, Volkmann JE, Wolfe J, Larsen HB, Bidstrup PE. Improving family grief outcomes: A scoping review of family-based interventions before and after the death of a child. Palliat Med 2024; 38:389-395. [PMID: 38506273 DOI: 10.1177/02692163241233958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experiencing the illness and death of a child is a traumatic experience for the parents and the child's siblings. However, knowledge regarding effective grief interventions targeting the whole family is limited, including how to integrate age-appropriate support for siblings. AIM We aimed to synthesize the empirical literature regarding grief interventions that target the whole family before and/or after the death of a child. DESIGN A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. DATA SOURCES We searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus covering January 1998-May 2022. We included studies describing any type of structured intervention targeting the whole family (i.e. parents and siblings) before or/and after the death of a child (below 18 years), with pre-post assessments of grief-related symptoms in the family as an outcome. RESULTS After removal of duplicates, we screened the titles and abstracts of 4078 publications and identified 30 publications for full-text screening. None of the studies met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies were excluded because they either did not target the whole family or did not target families who had lost a child below 18 years. Bereavement camps were a popular form of family intervention, but none were evaluated in a pre-post design. No grief interventions offering support pre-death were found. CONCLUSIONS There is great need for research to improve bereavement outcomes for the entire family and to potentially integrate this in pediatric palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverley Lim Høeg
- Psychological Aspects of Cancer, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mai-Britt Guldin
- Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Julie Høgh
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Joanne Wolfe
- Mass General Hospital for Children, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hanne Bækgaard Larsen
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, The Juliane Marie Center, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pernille Envold Bidstrup
- Psychological Aspects of Cancer, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Kirk S, Pryjmachuk S. 'People don't realise how much their past experiences affect them in adulthood': A qualitative study of adult siblings' experiences of growing-up with a sister/brother with a childhood life-limiting condition and their perceived support needs. Palliat Med 2024; 38:352-363. [PMID: 38342911 PMCID: PMC10955783 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231225100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of research about the experiences and impact of having a sibling with a life-limiting condition. Studies focus on the sibling experience during childhood but the experience and impact during adulthood is unknown despite the increased life-expectancy of children with life-limiting conditions. AIM To explore adult siblings' perspectives on the experience of having a sister/brother with a childhood life-limiting condition and to identify their perceived needs and preferences for support. DESIGN A qualitative exploratory study design with data generated by semi-structured interviews and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis, underpinned by interpretivism. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Twenty-two siblings (17-42 years old) were recruited via a children's hospice in England. RESULTS The experience of having a sibling with a life-limiting condition changes over time in response to how understandings of the meaning of a life-limiting condition develop and changing roles/relationships with parents and siblings. These experiences have an enduring impact on adult sibling's mental health which is compounded by their unmet (and sometimes unrecognised) support needs in adolescence and adulthood. Siblings described the importance of support continuing into adulthood with a focus on the provision of psychotherapy and peer support. CONCLUSIONS Having a sister/brother with a childhood life-limiting condition appeared to have a significant and ongoing impact on adult siblings but their support needs, particularly for psychotherapy and peer support, are overlooked. The findings highlight the importance of ensuring siblings are included in family assessments and that family-based interventions are developed to promote sibling-parent relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Kirk
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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7
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Tafazoli A, Cronin-Wood K. Pediatric Oncology Hospice: A Comprehensive Review. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2024:10499091241227609. [PMID: 38225192 DOI: 10.1177/10499091241227609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Pediatric hospice is a new terminology in current medical literature. Implementation of pediatric hospice care in oncology setting is a vast but subspecialized field of research and practice. However, it is accompanied by substantial uncertainties, shortages and unexplored sections. The lack of globally established definitions, principles, and guidelines in this field has adversely impacted the quality of end-of-life experiences for children with hospice needs worldwide. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive review of scientific literature, extracting and compiling the available but sparse data on pediatric oncology hospice from the PubMed database. Our systematic approach led to development of a well-organized structure introducing the foundational elements, highlighting complications, and uncovering hidden gaps in this critical area. This structured framework comprises nine major categories including general ideology, population specifications, role of parents and family, psychosocial issues, financial complications, service locations, involved specialties, regulations, and quality improvement. This platform can serve as a valuable resource in establishing a scientifically reliable foundation for future experiments and practices in pediatric oncology hospice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Tafazoli
- Healthcare administration program, St Lawrence College, Kingston Campus, ON, Canada
- Hospice Kingston, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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8
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Fazel M, Soneson E. Current evidence and opportunities in child and adolescent public mental health: a research review. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2023; 64:1699-1719. [PMID: 37771261 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A public mental health lens is increasingly required to better understand the complex and multifactorial influences of interpersonal, community and institutional systems on the mental health of children and adolescents. METHODS This research review (1) provides an overview of public mental health and proposes a new interactional schema that can guide research and practice, (2) summarises recent evidence on public mental health interventions for children and adolescents, (3) highlights current challenges for this population that might benefit from additional attention and (4) discusses methodological and conceptual hurdles and proposes potential solutions. RESULTS In our evidence review, a broad range of universal, selective and indicated interventions with a variety of targets, mechanisms and settings were identified, some of which (most notably parenting programmes and various school-based interventions) have demonstrated small-to-modest positive effects. Few, however, have achieved sustained mental health improvements. CONCLUSIONS There is an opportunity to re-think how public mental health interventions are designed, evaluated and implemented. Deliberate design, encompassing careful consideration of the aims and population-level impacts of interventions, complemented by measurement that embraces complexity through more in-depth characterisation, or 'phenotyping', of interpersonal and environmental elements is needed. Opportunities to improve child and adolescent mental health outcomes are gaining unprecedented momentum. Innovative new methodology, heightened public awareness, institutional interest and supportive funding can enable enhanced study of public mental health that does not shy away from complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Fazel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma Soneson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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9
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Lammon M. The Ashes of Tragedy: Parental Death and Child Character Development in Bambi and The Lion King. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231202884. [PMID: 37713269 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231202884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
The Walt Disney company has been the topic of extensive research for decades; among the explored subjects and identified themes is Disney's fixation on death. Disney has capitalized on the incredibly traumatic childhood experience of the death of a parent by featuring parental death as a major narrative component. Speculation remains regarding the accuracy of not only death presentations in media, but death influence on characters. Using textual analysis, this paper explores the role of parental death on child character development within two Disney animated films. Analysis demonstrates an inaccurate depiction of parental death influence on children in a positive light - essentially overlooking the trauma associated with loss during childhood and the mediating factors of long-term bereavement outcomes. Conversations remain to be had regarding how these inaccurate depictions of death and dying in popular culture influence the children consuming them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa Lammon
- Department of Media Studies, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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10
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Malmström N, Jakobsson Larsson B, Nilsson S, Öhlén J, Nygren I, Andersen PM, Ozanne A. Living with a parent with ALS - adolescents' need for professional support from the adolescents' and the parents' perspectives. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2023:1-9. [PMID: 37486108 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2023.2228348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the study was to qualitatively investigate the adolescents' need for professional support when a parent has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - from the adolescents' and the parents' perspectives. METHODS A total of 37 individual semi-structured single interviews with 18 families were conducted, including 11 adolescents aged 8-25 and 26 parents, 13 with ALS and 13 co-parents. Data was analysed using qualitative content analysis. RESULTS Both adolescents and parents described the adolescents as needing professional support but found it difficult to articulate this need. However, the results indicate that the adolescents needed help in bringing manageability into their lives due to the uncertainty of living with the illness in the family. It was therefore essential to ensure that the adolescents were not forgotten in the disease context and that their needs for being involved as well as for obtaining information and understanding, was addressed. The importance of offering the adolescents support early was emphasized, but also of actively helping the families to master challenges in their everyday life. Support adapted to each family's unique situation and preferences was desired, as the adolescents' need for support seemed to be individual, disease-dependent and varied during different phases. CONCLUSION Given the adolescents' need for information and understanding, healthcare professionals must actively work to reach the adolescents as early as possible. It is crucial to ensure that the adolescents are given the opportunity to be involved based on their own conditions, as well as to support the families to strengthen their communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Malmström
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Birgitta Jakobsson Larsson
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stefan Nilsson
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Centre for Person-Centred Care, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Joakim Öhlén
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Centre for Person-Centred Care, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Palliative Centre at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital Region Västra Götaland, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingela Nygren
- Department of Neurology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Peter M Andersen
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Neurosciences, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden, and
| | - Anneli Ozanne
- Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Neurology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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11
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Karidar H, Lundqvist P, Glasdam S. Inclusion and Participation in a Support Programme for Bereaved Adolescents - Relational Perspectives From an Ethnographic Field Study in a Swedish Context. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231185802. [PMID: 37353971 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231185802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
The death of a parent is a life-changing event, and different programmes are developed to support children. This study explored how parental bereaved adolescents were included and (inter)acted in a Swedish support programme. The conducted ethnographic field study included six adolescents, their parents, and eight volunteers. The empirical material was thematically analysed through a theoretical lens inspired by Bourdieu. Three themes emerged: 'Different strategies for adolescents' inclusion in the programme,' 'Medico-psychological understanding of grief and suffering,' and 'Reproduction of the logic of the school.' Adolescents were included in the programme through different strategies, where adults functioned as gatekeepers. The programme reproduced the school logic and was based on a medico-psychological grief/bereavement understanding. Volunteers had pedagogic authority and concomitant symbolic power, ruling adolescents to do what they must do in the meetings, silently socialising them into the medical logic. The adolescents only interacted and communicated with each other during breaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakima Karidar
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Palliative and Advanced Homecare (ASIH), Lund, Sweden
| | - Pia Lundqvist
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Stinne Glasdam
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Fu C, Glasdam S, Stjernswärd S, Xu H. A Qualitative Systematic Review About Children's Everyday Lives when a Parent Is Seriously Ill with the Prospect of Imminent Death - Perspectives of Children and Parents. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228221149767. [PMID: 36628967 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221149767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Parental dying is a life changing experience for children. This study explores children's strategies and (inter)actions in their everyday life when facing critically ill parents and imminent death, from the children's and parents' perspectives. A qualitative systematic review was carried out, registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022306862). A literature search and screening in six databases resulted in eighteen articles. Thematic analysis showed that children were capable of developing various strategies to cope in everyday life, even in vulnerable situations. From parents' and children's perspectives, inclusion, openness, and communication about parents' situations, taking children's age and needs into consideration, were important to face and cope with the situation. Children were life-capable, also in vulnerable and difficult situations. This calls for the necessity of developing children-led support, by acknowledging, and taking the children's experiences, and resources, as starting points to tailor adequate support for children of critically ill parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Fu
- Integrative Health Research, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Stinne Glasdam
- Integrative Health Research, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Sigrid Stjernswärd
- Health-promoting Complex Interventions, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hongxuan Xu
- Integrative Health Research, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Glasdam S, Karidar H, Lundqvist P, Stjernswärd S. Unity strengthens and inhibits development: A focus group interview with volunteer adults in support programs for bereaved children and their family. DEATH STUDIES 2023:1-11. [PMID: 36601887 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2022.2160521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This article illuminates (inter)actions and group dynamics of adult volunteers in programs for bereaved children and parents. A focus group interview with seven volunteers in Swedish was conducted. A latent, thematic analysis was conducted, inspired by Braun and Clarke, and Goffman. Two themes were constructed: Personal despair as a motivation for establishing and consolidating voluntary involvement and The volunteers acted as an extended family. Group dynamics within the group contributed to uphold volunteers' adherence to formal and informal guidance related to the program. Strong engagement among volunteers and internal recruitment strategies contributed to uphold and consolidate the program's implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stinne Glasdam
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Hakima Karidar
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Palliative and Advanced Homecare (ASIH) Lund, Lund, Sweden
| | - Pia Lundqvist
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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14
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Wagner B, Hofmann L, Maaß U. A therapist-supported internet-based intervention for bereaved siblings: A randomized controlled trial. Palliat Med 2022; 36:1532-1543. [PMID: 36268543 DOI: 10.1177/02692163221122344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The loss of a sibling can have a long-term impact on the mental and physical health of the surviving sibling throughout adolescence and later adulthood. Even though bereaved siblings can be identified as a high-risk group, evidence-based interventions for this bereavement group are still missing. AIM To evaluate the treatment effects of an internet-based writing intervention for bereaved siblings aged 16-65 years. DESIGN A two-armed randomized controlled trial (DRKS00011514) compared the intervention to a waiting list control group. The 6-week intervention consisted of six structured writing assignments that were based on cognitive behavioral therapy, focusing on the specific situation of bereaved siblings. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Eighty-six bereaved siblings (loss >1 month ago, no severe psychiatric symptoms) were randomly allocated to the intervention group (n = 47) or the waiting list control group (n = 39). Primary outcomes were symptoms of prolonged grief disorder and depression; secondary outcomes were posttraumatic stress symptoms and survivor guilt. RESULTS Symptoms of depression and prolonged grief disorder improved significantly in the intention-to-treat analyses from pre-to post-measurement compared with the control group (gDepression = -0.62, gGrief = 0.33). In the intervention group, all primary and secondary outcomes decreased significantly from baseline to 12-month follow-up (gs = -0.38 to -1.04). A significant clinical change could be found for depression (34%) compared to the waitlist control group (10%). CONCLUSIONS Bereaved siblings profited from this brief internet-based writing intervention in the short- and long-term. However, future research, such as dismantling studies, may help to further optimize the benefits of an intervention aimed at bereaved siblings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Wagner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical School Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Laura Hofmann
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical School Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ulrike Maaß
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute for Psychology, Potsdam University, Potsdam, Germany
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15
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Uber A, Ebelhar JS, Lanzel AF, Roche A, Vidal-Anaya V, Brock KE. Palliative Care in Pediatric Oncology and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Curr Oncol Rep 2022; 24:161-174. [DOI: 10.1007/s11912-021-01174-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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16
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Levy C, Drouin K, Dorsett A, Sood E. Supporting Transition to the Bereaved Community After the Death of a Child. Pediatrics 2021; 148:peds.2021-052943. [PMID: 34702721 PMCID: PMC9007229 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-052943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Carly Levy
- Nemours Children's Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware .,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kristin Drouin
- Nemours Children’s Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware;,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ady Dorsett
- Hayden’s Heart & Hayden’s House of Healing, Columbia, New Jersey
| | - Erica Sood
- Nemours Children’s Hospital, Wilmington, Delaware;,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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17
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Hiemeyer RB, Berger T, Braun T, Wagner B. Psychotherapists' rated working alliance in an internet-based intervention for bereaved siblings. DEATH STUDIES 2021; 46:2507-2516. [PMID: 34714217 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2021.1995533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Bereaved siblings often receive insufficient social support and are at higher risk for mental disorders. This study aimed to examine the role of the therapist-rated working alliance in an online intervention for bereaved siblings. Clients (n = 74, 95% female), aged 17-59 received writing assignments and individual feedback by CBT trained therapists over 6 weeks. Working alliance (Working Alliance Inventory) and treatment outcomes (Inventory of Complicated Grief, Beck Depression Inventory-II) were assessed. Results revealed that the working alliance significantly increased during the course of the treatment and a significant association between working alliance and the change in depression was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rico-Benjamin Hiemeyer
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical School Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tina Braun
- Department of Psychological Research Methods and Evaluation, University of the German Federal Armed Forces, Munich, Germany
| | - Birgit Wagner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Medical School Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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18
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Ridley A, Revet A, Raynaud JP, Bui E, Suc A. Description and evaluation of a French grief workshop for children and adolescents bereaved of a sibling or parent. BMC Palliat Care 2021; 20:159. [PMID: 34649560 PMCID: PMC8518298 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-021-00861-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood bereavement is common, and is associated with elevated symptoms of grief with distress and impairment. However, few developmentally appropriate interventions to support grieving children are available to date. In Toulouse, France we developed an innovative four-session group intervention to support grieving families and evaluated its feasibility and acceptability. Methods The workshop consists of four sessions over 4 months, open to children bereaved of a sibling or parent, and co-facilitated by two mental health professionals. After an intake assessment, children were placed into closed groups according to age and relation to the deceased. The session content was balanced between creative activities and grief-related discussions. Overall satisfaction was evaluated in March-April of 2020 by an 8-question online survey of children and parents having participated between 2011 and 2019. Freeform commentaries were analysed using the thematic synthesis process. Results Of the 230 emails sent in March 2020, 46 children and 81 parents agreed to participate (55% response rate). The families reported an overall high level of satisfaction regarding the intervention that was rated as good to excellent. A majority of respondents considered their participation in the workshop helpful and in accordance with their expectations. Most would recommend the workshop to a friend, and would participate again in the group if needed. The group intervention helped reduce social isolation, facilitated grief expression, and supported the creation of a sense of community among bereaved families. Conclusions Encouraging community and mutual support among grieving families is fundamental in bereavement care. Our four-session workshop held over 4 months and led by mental health professionals aimed to help reduce social isolation and foster coping skills through artistic creation and group discussion. Our results highlight the potential need for family bereavement support over a longer period and a provision of a variety of services. Our intervention model is feasible for families, and further studies examining its efficacy are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Ridley
- Department of Paediatric Palliative Care, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Alexis Revet
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,Centre for Epidemiology and Population Research, University of Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Raynaud
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.,Centre for Epidemiology and Population Research, University of Toulouse, Inserm, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Eric Bui
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,University of Caen Normandy & Caen University Hospital, Caen, France
| | - Agnès Suc
- Department of Paediatric Palliative Care, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France.
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