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Published on: September 19, 2019
Empty nest syndrome: A concept analysis
Maryam Ahmadi Khatir1, Mahnaz Modanloo2, Ali Dadgari3
1PhD Student of Nursing and Midwifery School, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran.
Empty nest syndrome (ENS) is a subjective parental reaction to children leaving home. This study defined ENS as a transition from crisis to self-regaining, occurring up to two years after the last child departs.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Empty nest syndrome (ENS) describes parents' experiences when children leave home.
- A clear definition and contextual understanding of ENS are lacking.
- This study aimed to define the concept of ENS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the concept of Empty Nest Syndrome (ENS).
- To establish a comprehensive understanding of ENS in the context of parental experiences.
- To provide a foundation for further research and interventions related to ENS.
Main Methods:
- A three-phase hybrid concept analysis was employed.
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted across multiple databases.
- Qualitative content analysis, including semi-structured interviews with parents, was utilized.
Main Results:
- The study formulated a comprehensive definition of ENS: a subjective phenomenon resulting from parents' reaction to children leaving home.
- Identified stages of ENS include mourning, loss, adaptation, and relief.
- The phenomenon initiates with the last child's departure and can persist for up to two years.
Conclusions:
- Defining ENS facilitates the development of theoretical frameworks and measurement tools.
- Understanding ENS can guide the creation of programs for healthcare teams.
- This research supports the identification and management of ENS-related issues.
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