Abstract
The purpose of this study was to clarify fathers' feelings regarding hospitalization of children with chronic illness. Fourteen fathers of children hospitalized due to chronic illness were studied, to clarify the characteristics of fathers' feelings, using both a qualitative study method, utilizing a semi- structured interview, and a quantitative study method, using the Japanese-edition Profile of Mood States (hereinafter referred to as Japanese-edition POMS) for fathers and mothers. The results of analysis of the semi-structured interview clarified the structure of a major category: "Shaanai (It is inevitable) ." Also, as a result of the Japanese-edition POMS research for fathers, a significant difference was confirmed (p<0.05) between during and after hospitalization of children regarding the standardized points (hereinafter referred to as T points), as to each of T-A (Tension-Anxiety) scale, which indicates tension and anxiety; D (Dejection) scale, which indicates a negative mood and depression; A-H (Anger-Hostility) scale, which indicates anger and hostility, and V (Vigor) scale, which indicates vigor. In the POMS values, a state of negative emotion was indicated (p<0.05). Based on the results, it was suspected that fathers deal with changes accompanying hospitalization of children with an attitude expressed as "Shaanai (It is inevitable)."
