The Self-Empowerment Development Process Experienced by Mothers Caring for Children with Pediatric Cancer

Abstract

 The aim of the present study was to clarify the self-empowerment development process experienced by mothers caring for children with pediatric cancer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five mothers of children who underwent treatment for pediatric cancer during infancy and the results were qualitatively analyzed. The results revealed that mothers experienced “anxiety regarding their child’s state,” “strong discouragement due to the fact that their child suffered from an unexpected illness,” and “guilt over their child developing the illness.” Mothers were supported by “family who shared their feelings and gave encouragement regarding the child’s recovery,” which enabled them to build “faith that their child would recover” and “a positive outlook for recovery.” Establishing the diagnosis and determining the treatment plan were turning points. Mothers acknowledged that they had “faith that their child would recover” and “a positive outlook for recovery” and were thus inspired to do their best. These results suggested that nursing support is required to understand emotional changes in mothers and to help mothers display their own strength.