Abstract

MENSORIO, Marinna Simões; KOHLSDORF, Marina  and  COSTA JUNIOR, Áderson L.. Caregivers of children and adolescents with leukemia: coping strategies analysis. Psicol. rev. (Belo Horizonte) [online]. 2009, vol.15, n.1, pp. 158-176. ISSN 1677-1168.

This study aimed to investigate changes in coping strategies adopted by 30 pediatric caregivers during the initial six months of children’s and adolescents’ treatment for leukemia. The Ways of Coping Scale was applied to the diagnosis two to three months after the beginning of the treatment, and then after five to six months of treatment. The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) was applied in corresponding applications. There was a reduction in levels of anxiety during the treatment, and a predominance of coping strategies focused on the problem and the search for spiritual and social support. Better care by pediatric oncology professionals in identifying the psycho-social intervention needs involving patients and their caregivers is suggested. Data allow planning preventive interventions to increase the acquisition and maintenance of pediatric caregivers’ efficient coping strategies.

Keywords : coping; pediatric psycho-oncology; leukemia; caregivers.

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