Parents' romantic attachment predicts family ritual meaning and family cohesion among parents and their children with cancer

Abstract

Objective Family functioning is associated with adaptation in pediatric illness. This study examines the role of parents' relationships (specifically romantic attachment) as a predictor of family ritual meaning and family cohesion for parents and their children with cancer. Methods The dyads, 58 partnered Portuguese parents and their children in treatment, reported on family ritual meaning and family cohesion at Time 1 (T1) and after 6 months (T2). Parents also completed the questionnaire assessing romantic attachment at T1. Results Parents' avoidant attachment, but not anxious attachment, predicted lower family ritual meaning and family cohesion after 6 months. T2 family ritual meaning mediated the relationship between T1 avoidant attachment and T2 family cohesion. Conclusions Parents' avoidant attachment may have a negative effect on family functioning in parents and children. Clinical intervention to address avoidant attachment or/and to promote family ritual meaning may help strengthen family ties.