Experiences and Needs of Turkish Fathers of Children With Cancer: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the experiences and needs of Turkish fathers with children undergoing cancer treatment.

Method

This descriptive qualitative study was conducted in a university hospital in Türkiye. The sample of the study consisted of 23 fathers of children with cancer selected with purposive sampling. Semistructured interviews were analyzed by using the thematic analysis method.

Results

Four themes emerged from these data. These themes were emotional experiences, changes, role of social support in coping, and support needs. Fathers experienced fear of death, helplessness, uncertainty, loneliness, and hope. They assumed the role of caregiver in addition to the role of father, spouse, and employee. Their family relationships improved for the sick child and spouse but did not for siblings. It was found that fathers hid their feelings from their families to look strong. Moreover, they had information needs at the beginning and ongoing housing and financial needs. Fathers needed psychological support, and they did not know how to access psychological support services.

Discussion

Fathers whose children have cancer experience many emotional difficulties and changes. They have difficulty in expressing their feelings and getting help. Nurses may encourage fathers to express their feelings, recognize their changing roles, relationships, and needs, and provide psychosocial support based on holistic care to help them cope with emotional burdens.