Patterns Identified in Parents' Cancer Disclosure Practices: Parent and Child Perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Child Psychology
• Cross-cultural Studies

Background:

• Family-centered care is crucial in pediatric oncology, yet cancer diagnosis disclosure is complex and culturally sensitive.
• Practices surrounding disclosure vary widely, influenced by numerous factors affecting families.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore parental disclosure patterns of cancer diagnosis in children.
• To identify factors influencing these patterns from both parent and child perspectives.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive qualitative study was conducted at a Chinese national children's medical center.
• Interviews were conducted with 23 parents and 10 children.
• Thematic and content analysis were used to identify disclosure patterns and influencing factors.

Main Results:

• Five distinct parental disclosure patterns were identified: honest sharing, gradual revelation, waiting for the right time, keeping it to oneself, and indefinite silence.
• Disclosure patterns were influenced by individual, interpersonal, institutional, and societal factors, guided by the Social-Ecological Framework.
• Factors included disease characteristics, child's condition, parental beliefs, family dynamics, provider communication, and cultural norms.

Conclusions:

• Parental cancer disclosure patterns are diverse and culturally influenced, shaped by multiple interacting factors.
• Further research is needed to understand these dynamics and develop tailored interventions.
• Healthcare providers should tailor disclosure approaches, address barriers, and promote culturally sensitive guidelines to enhance parent-child relationships and care quality.