The process of adaptation: Parents’ journey navigating their child's chronic health condition diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine parents' perceptions and experiences navigating their child's chronic health condition diagnosis. Methods: Researchers used a qualitative research design, applying a phenomenological approach to interview 15 parents of children with a chronic health condition. Researchers analyzed verbatim transcripts to develop themes and report strategies that might inform care of the child and parents. Results: Parents described a fluid experience navigating their child's diagnosis that involved five interwoven elements: grief, anxiety, unknowing, responsibility, and positivity. Mediating processes of time and experience supported adaptation toward positivity. Experiences appeared to transcend child-specific diagnoses suggesting a common process of parent adaptation to a child's diagnosis. Conclusion: Findings elucidate parents’ lived experiences surrounding their child's diagnosis of a chronic health condition. Parents are inextricable from their child's care; thus, findings may garner knowledge supporting providers to employ strategies that support favorable outcomes for both children and parents.