JOPHON NCPD (2022 May/Jun) -The Family Talk Intervention in Pediatric Oncology: Ill Children’s Descriptions of Feasibility and Potential Effects-The Family Talk Intervention in Pediatric Oncology: Ill Children’s Descriptions of Feasibility and Potential Effects

The Family Talk Intervention in Pediatric Oncology: Ill Children’s Descriptions of Feasibility and Potential Effects

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This pilot study evaluated the feasibility and perceived effects of the Family Talk Intervention (FTI)—a structured, manual-based, six-meeting family communication program—in Swedish pediatric oncology from the perspectives of ill children. Because few psychosocial interventions for whole families in pediatric cancer have been scientifically evaluated, the authors examined whether children found FTI acceptable (timing, number/length of meetings, ability to speak openly) and whether they perceived benefits.<br /><br />Twenty-six families completed FTI. Post-intervention data came from surveys (19 ill children aged 6–17) and interviews (11 children aged 8–17 who could recall the intervention). Survey results showed high acceptability: all children felt understood by the interventionists; most liked talking to interventionists without parents present (79%). Among children aged 8–17, 69% thought the number of meetings was “right,” though some wanted more meetings, particularly additional individual or whole-family sessions. Meeting length was usually appropriate, but a minority found them too long or too short depending on fatigue and how much they had to say. All teenagers reported the timing was right, although one younger child wished the intervention had started earlier and several wanted better advance notice and scheduling.<br /><br />Perceived effects were largely positive. Most children (84%) reported FTI helped them in some way, and all teenagers would recommend it. Interview themes suggested FTI improved family communication about illness-related thoughts and feelings, increased mutual understanding, and strengthened family and sibling relationships (including more openness between siblings). Children also perceived improved wellbeing in parents and siblings (e.g., parents seemed happier, more able to pause when tired, and more understanding). Some children reported school-related improvements, such as better teacher awareness and accommodations. The authors conclude a full-scale study is warranted, while noting limitations including small sample size and a relatively socioeconomically advantaged, Swedish-speaking participant group.

Keywords

Family Talk Intervention

FTI

pediatric oncology

child perspectives

family communication

psychosocial intervention

Sweden

feasibility study

intervention acceptability

perceived effects