Abstract
The aim of this study is to identify the field characteristics of in-hospital parents' groups of child cancer patients. A questionnaire survey based on a conceptual framework in reference to Lewin's field theory was conducted for the representatives of 15 such groups in pediatric cancer wards nationwide and 224 members of such groups. Statistical and content analyses were employed to extract the field characteristics of the group by aggregating structural and participation characteristics. As a result, it was elucidated that these groups carry a relevant meaning in being active within hospitals by keeping close relationships with medical professionals while providing 'connection with other parents, and psychological healing and sharing'. They were also relevant in acting as interest groups based on member desire for 1) information gathering 2) comradeship and psychological stability 3) motivation for future activities and 4) relationship with the hospital. Furthermore, these groups have orientations of 'psychological support', 'multi-angled information gathering' and 'creating a better caring environment for children', making them potentially important contributors for the treatment of childhood cancer patients. The study demonstrated the necessity of understanding for these characteristics of the group by medical professionals and to investigate establishing collaboration.
