Family dynamics of families with cancer in Finland

The purpose of this study was to describe family dynamics of families with cancer on the basis of Barnhill's framework for healthy family systems. The sample consisted of families in which one member had cancer. Both the patients (n = 96) and their relatives (n = 96) participated in the study (n = 192). The data for the study were collected using the Family Dynamics Questionnaire and the Family Dynamics Measure. The results indicated that the cancer of a single family member did not impair family functioning, but that family dynamics were considered quite good. There were no statistically significant differences between cancer patients and relatives on any of the family dynamics dimensions. However, an examination of sociodemographic characteristics did reveal some differences. Older relatives reported more enmeshment and rigidity than did younger relatives, whereas the latter reported more role conflict than older relatives. Older patients reported more rigidity than younger patients. Relatives who were men reported more enmeshment than women, whereas women reported more role conflict. Relatives of two-member families reported more rigidity than relatives with a larger family. Patients who reported a serious illness in the family described more mutuality, better flexibility, and clearer communication than patients who did not report such an illness. Also, relatives who mentioned a serious illness reported more mutuality and flexibility.