Relationship Quality among Chronically Ill Children and their Parents

The present study examined the quality of parent–child relationships as reported by 383 parents of chronically ill children. The medical condition category, child’s mobility, education type and childcare assistance were examined. Parents answered the Parent–Child Relationship Inventory (PCRI). In addition, 45 parents of chronically ill children were interviewed. The results indicated a significant difference in most aspects of the PCRI (limit setting, promotion of autonomy, communication, satisfaction and involvement) across medical condition categories. Further child variables (mobility, assistance and education type) had an effect on the PCRI subscales as well. Interview analysis revealed a difference in the reported quality of parent–child relationships between medical conditions categories. Parents of mentally ill children primarily felt anger and guilt in their relationship with their ill children, whereas parents of children with cancer and autoimmune disease primarily felt depressed. Our results suggest the need for further study of parent–child relationships in and between different chronic childhood medical conditions in an attempt to address parents’ and children’s needs in an optimal way.