Psychosocial study of leukemic children and their parents

Psychosocial assessment was carried out in 35 children with acute lymphatic leukemic, an equal number with non-leukemic chronic illness and their parents. Psychological dysfunction existed more frequently in parents of leukemic children. Depression as an initial reaction on being conveyed the diagnosis, was seen in 85.8% whilst anger was observed in 42.8%. Majority (89.7%) entertained doubts about whether a correct diagnosis has been established. Understanding of the disease, its possible course and the need for prolonged treatment, was appreciated by about 65.7% of parents. The disease imposed serious social, financial and occupational burdens on the family. Measures used to cope with such stresses included meeting close friends and relatives and finding solace in religious activities. When comparing psychopathology in leukemic children with that in chronically ill non-leukemic counterparts, significant differences were observed in certain specific syndrome scores. Conduct disorder, anxiety, depression and psychotic symptoms were more prevalent in leukemic children. This study emphasizes the necessity of active psychosocial intervention in the total care of childhood leukemia.