Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 3, 2026
14:39
Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 5, 2010
Family functioning and child asthma severity: A bio-behavioral approach
Nour Al Ghriwati1, Marcia A Winter1, Robin S Everhart1
1Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University.
Summary
Family factors like cohesion and communication indirectly impact childhood asthma severity through child depression, not anxiety. This highlights the importance of family dynamics in managing pediatric asthma. (33 words)
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Family Systems Theory
- Chronic Illness Management
Background:
- Family factors significantly influence psychosocial adjustment in children with chronic conditions like asthma.
- Negative family dynamics can exacerbate childhood asthma severity through bio-behavioral pathways.
- Previous research has not comprehensively explored strength-based family factors in relation to pediatric asthma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of strength-based family factors (cohesion, problem-solving, communication) on pediatric asthma severity.
- To examine the mediating roles of child depression and anxiety symptoms in this relationship.
- To understand the complex interplay between family functioning and childhood asthma outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Structural equation modeling was used to analyze data from 215 children (ages 5-12) and their families.
- Data included primary caregiver, child, and teacher ratings of child and family functioning.
- Objective measures of parent-child interactions and asthma severity were also collected.
Main Results:
- Significant indirect associations were found between family factors and child asthma severity, mediated by child depressive symptoms.
- These indirect pathways were not significant when child anxiety symptoms were considered.
- Family cohesion, problem-solving, and communication demonstrated an indirect effect on asthma severity via depression.
Conclusions:
- Family functioning indirectly impacts children's lung function, with depression playing a key mediating role.
- Childhood anxiety symptoms do not appear to mediate the relationship between family factors and asthma severity.
- Multirater, multimethod assessments are crucial for understanding pediatric asthma experiences.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
01:24Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Classification of Asthma
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
The diagnosis and management of asthma are comprehensive, encompassing clinical assessments, lung function tests, and pharmacological interventions. Here's an overview:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
01:30Asthma-IV: Nursing Management
The nursing management of asthma is a comprehensive approach that relies heavily on the expertise and dedication of healthcare professionals. It involves thorough assessment, accurate diagnosis, strategic planning, effective implementation, and diligent evaluation. By meticulously following this step-by-step process, healthcare professionals play a crucial role in providing the best possible care and treatment for patients with asthma, enhancing their overall health and well-being.
First, in...
First, in...
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...