Childhood cancer and family life : conceptualizing the perception of the sibling

This study was designed to investigate the sibling's view of living in a family where another child was being treated for cancer. Specifically, the purpose of the study was to conceptualize the sibling's perception of day to day living when another child in the family is being treated for cancer. Eight children belonging to two families participated in the study. Two conversation sessions were held with each child, either individually or in a group, during which the interviewer elicicted descriptions of daily life. Using the constant comparative process associated with grounded theory, concepts identified as emerging from the data were the special status of the ill child, and a new normality. The process of redefining normality was identified as the central variable which accounted for the majority of the variation in behavior. This redefinition of normality appeared to make it possible for siblings to process problems in such a way as to make life viable (Glaser 1978, p. 57). The results of this study support other research which indicates that the child's view of the world is different than the adult's. Relating the findings of this study to the literature has resulted in specific suggestions for nursing research for elucidating the sibling's view. The implications for nursing practice are discussed within the framework of Orem's general theory of nursing.Applied Science, Faculty ofNursing, School ofGraduat