Subjective experience of parent-child relationship in adolescents with congenital heart disease: A qualitative study

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the parent-child relationship through the subjective experience of adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Design and methods: A descriptive phenomenology approach was adopted. Twelve adolescents aged from 12 to 18 years with CHD were recruited from the pediatric cardiology clinics at two medical centers in Taiwan. Data were collected through in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis method, and results were reported in accordance with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines.

Results: The experiences of the adolescents with CHD revealed five themes: 1. the enhancement of self-worth through parents' love; 2. the importance of parental support in desperate situations; 3. the development of a sense of security through mutual understanding; 4. growth under parental expectations; and 5. parental overcontrol disguised as love.

Conclusions: The parent-child relationship encompasses both positive and negative experiences. Adolescents prioritize their relationship with parents over that with peers.

Practice implications: Nurses caring for adolescents with CHD can improve care by recognizing the influence of parental love, support in challenges, mutual understanding, parental expectations, and potential negative consequences of overcontrol. This insight guides effective guidance for adolescents, enhancing parent-child interactions and overall well-being.

Keywords: Adolescent; Congenital; Heart disease; Parent–child relations; Qualitative research.