Concepts of illness in Icelandic children

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the development of illness concepts among healthy Icelandic children. Methods: Participants were 68 schoolchildren, 6- 7, 10-11, and 14-15 years of age, and their parents. Cognitive developmental level and understanding of physical illness were assessed within a Piagetian framework. In addition, illness experience and illness behaviors (Child Illness Behavior Questionnaire) were assessed. Results: Results were consistent with previous studies in that the development of illness concepts among Icelandic children was consistent with Piaget's theory of cognitive development. No relation was found between illness experience and understanding of illness. A more mature understanding of illness was related to willingness to report the onset of illness. Conclusions: The results suggest that findings from previous studies may be generalized to a broader population.