Fathers’ ongoing journey when a child in the family has a chronic condition: A meta-synthesis
Author Identifier
Mandie J. Foster: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3100-0885
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
Journal of Family Nursing
Volume
30
Issue
4
First Page
283
Last Page
303
PubMed ID
39584461
Publisher
Sage
School
School of Nursing and Midwifery
RAS ID
77163
Funders
IFNA Global Family Nursing Initiative of the International Family Nursing Association / Minnesota State University / Mankato|Glen Taylor Nursing Institute for Family & Society Partnership
Abstract
This qualitative meta-synthesis was conducted with the aim to understand fathers’ experiences and involvement when their child has a chronic condition within family context. Family nurse researchers from five countries identified 19 studies through a systematic search. Inclusion criteria were: (a) fathers as primary informant; (b) children (< 19 years) with a chronic condition; (c) written in English, Spanish, French, or Portuguese. Data were synthesized using thematic analysis. Four themes reflected fathers’ journey: “Juggling multiple roles” included protector, provider, and supporter; “Managing control” included relinquishing and regaining control; “Creating a new normal” addressed recovery; “Maintaining wellbeing” reflected multiple emotional responses and support found through partners, family, spirituality, and health care communities. Fathers desire to be involved in caring for their child with a chronic condition, yet involvement and experience are continually evolving due to various family needs. Health care providers should consider unconscious assumptions regarding fathers’ role in child care and encourage fathers’ involvement to facilitate family wellbeing.
DOI
10.1177/10748407241290308
Access Rights
subscription content
Comments
Danford, C. A., Roberts, K. J., Foster, M. J., Giambra, B., Spurr, S., Polita, N. B., ... & Smith, L. (2024). Fathers’ ongoing journey when a child in the family has a chronic condition: A meta-synthesis. Journal of Family Nursing, 30(4), 283-303. https://doi.org/10.1177/10748407241290308