Social support experiences of hispanic/latino parents of childhood cancer survivors in a safety-net hospital: a qualitative study

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the social support experiences of Hispanic/Latino parents while caregiving for childhood cancer survivors. Research approach: Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted among 15 caregivers from a safety-net hospital in Los Angeles. A thematic analysis approach was used to analyze data. Findings: The positive influence of social support throughout their caregiving experience included (1) sharing information-enhanced knowledge, (2) receiving comfort and encouragement, (3) receiving tangible assistance reducing the caregiving burden, and (4) enhancing caregiving empowerment/self-efficacy. Sub-themes regarding the lack of social support included (1) being a single parent and (2) family and friends withdrawing after the child’s cancer diagnosis. Conclusion: We found Hispanic/Latino parents strongly value social support as it enables them to have essential resources that support caregiving for their child and themselves. Efforts should ensure that caregivers are routinely screened to identify their supportive needs so that support services for caregivers can be optimized and tailored, as those with a lack of social support may experience excessive caregiver burden.