Stressors in families with a child with a chronic condition: an analysis of qualitative studies and a framework

This article presents a comprehensive, research-based, clinically useable framework of stressors and tasks for families with a child with a chronic condition. Terms such as stressors, tasks, challenges, concerns, and problems are commonly used to describe the struggles and triumphs of these families. Their unique and changing nature has complicated comprehensive description. The steps in the early development of the Burke Stressors and Tasks Framework for Families with a Child with a Chronic Condition, and its clinical uses, are briefly described. The final step in the development of the Framework is discussed in more detail. This was a "meta-analysis" of qualitative research findings that confirmed the components of the Framework. Conclusions are drawn for subsequent research steps and clinical uses of the Framework.