Finding the Silver Lining: Children and families' abilities to perceive benefits in the face of adversity

Abstract

Many individuals faced with chronic illnesses state their experience has led to benefits. Adult research suggests individuals' abilities to perceive gains during times of adversity impacts their health; yet, research into children's perceptions is limited. Accordingly, this study investigated (a) what factors are associated with benefit finding in children, (b) the relationship between benefit finding among family members, and (c) whether children who perceived more benefits during the cancer experience have better psychological and physical well-being than those who perceived fewer benefits. To address these hypotheses, children, caregivers, and their nurses completed measures. Children in this sample most often endorsed changes in life priorities as a benefit regardless of age. Families noted that they felt closer to one another and were more aware of the love and support others offered. No relationships were found between children's benefit finding and their quality of life or the severity of their illness.