How to Talk to Children and Adolescents With Cancer About Spirituality? Establishing a Conversation Model. (March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Alvarenga, Willyane de Andrade; Leite, Ana Carolina Andrade Biaggi; Menochelli, Amanda Aparecida; Ortiz La Banca, Rebecca; De Bortoli, Paula Saud; Neris, Rhyquelle Rhibna; Nascimento, Lucila Castanheira
• Is Part Of: Journal of pediatric oncology nursing. Volume 38:Number 2(2021)
• Page Start: 116
• Page End: 130
• Publication Date: 2021-03
• Subjects: child -- adolescent -- neoplasm -- photography -- spirituality -- nursing -- methodology research; Cancer in children -- Periodicals; Pediatric nursing -- Periodicals; 618.92994
• DOI: 10.1177/1043454220975703
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1043-4542

Abstract

Talking to children and adolescents with cancer about spirituality is a challenge. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a conversation model for a spiritual approach with children and adolescents with cancer. It was a methodological study with a systematic approach in three stages: (a) review of the literature for the selection of photographs and guiding questions, (b) using an expert committee to evaluate photographs and preselected questions, and (c) cognitive interview with children and adolescents to test the methodology. The expert committee evaluated and selected 20 photos and their respective guiding questions. Fifteen children and adolescents hospitalized with cancer tested the spirituality conversation model and expressed feelings, values, beliefs, fears, and the meaning they give to life and illness. The implementation of the conversation model can contribute both to the clinical practice, facilitating care for the spiritual dimension of pediatric patients, and to qualitative research on spirituality involving children.