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Predictors of coping strategy selection in paediatric patients
M A Landolt1, M Vollrath, K Ribi
1mlandolt@kispi.unizh.ch
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|November 5, 2002
Summary
Pediatric patients use diverse coping strategies, with age and functional status significantly influencing their choices. Younger children and those with lower functional status employ fewer active coping mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Child Health Outcomes
- Coping Mechanisms in Illness
Background:
- Children facing significant health events like accidents, cancer, or diabetes mellitus type I experience diverse psychological challenges.
- Understanding coping strategies is crucial for supporting pediatric patients during stressful medical experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of various coping strategies used by pediatric patients.
- To identify predictors of coping strategy selection among these children.
Main Methods:
- Investigated 179 pediatric patients (mean age 10.2 years) one month post-event (accident, cancer, or diabetes mellitus type I diagnosis).
- Assessed coping strategy use through a variety of methods, analyzing associations with demographic and clinical factors.
Main Results:
- Cognitive avoidance, positive cognitive restructuring, and avoidant actions were the most frequent coping strategies.
- Seeking problem-focused and emotion-focused support were rarely utilized.
- Age, socioeconomic status, and functional status predicted coping strategy selection; younger children and those with lower functional status used fewer active strategies.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric patients employ a wide range of coping strategies, independent of diagnosis or gender.
- Child's age and functional status emerged as the primary predictors influencing how children cope with illness and trauma.