Exploring the relationship between parent–child communication about epilepsy and psychosocial well-being. (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: O'Toole, Stephanie; Gallagher, Pamela; Benson, Ailbhe; Shahwan, Amre; Austin, Joan K; Lambert, Veronica
• Is Part Of: Journal of health psychology. Volume 26:Number 8(2021)
• Page Start: 1207
• Page End: 1221
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: child -- communication -- epilepsy -- parent -- psychosocial well-being; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; 613.019
• DOI: 10.1177/1359105319871642
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-1053

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between parent–child communication and psychosocial well-being of 47 children living with epilepsy and 72 parents of children living with epilepsy. Open communication was associated with positive illness attitude, positive self-perception and greater health-related quality of life for children living with epilepsy; positive response to illness for parents; and more perceived social support and less need for epilepsy-related support for children living with epilepsy and parents. By contrast, closed communication was associated with poorer psychosocial well-being in children living with epilepsy and parents. Healthcare professionals should provide guidance for families living with childhood epilepsy on the importance of open communication in promoting greater psychosocial well-being.