Family life cycle – features of families with children with congenital heart disease

Abstract

The birth of a child with congenital heart disease (CHD) completely changes the family situation. CHD is a chronic condition that from birth to life is associated with psychological characteristics and poses many challenges. This review presents the main features of the life cycle of a family with a child with CHD. The stages of a family life cycle are 6: independent living; married couple; family with children up to school age; with children from school age to adulthood; stage of “empty nest”; late stage. Each is characterized by different psychological features. The third stage or the appearance of a child with CHD is manifested by a high level of stress and anxiety, the formation and change of parenting styles, relationships with doctors. School achievements, frequent hospitalizations, and social isolation are leading in the fourth stage. The fi fth stage sometimes does not occur. Sixth is related to health problems. The fi rst stage of independence is also very problematic and often missing. The leading factors in the second stage are heredity, professional realization, and relationships with the partner. The family with CHD follows the usual stages of the life cycle, but the psychological features are related to the presence of chronic disease. Preferred parenting styles, levels of anxiety, and self-esteem differ from those, used in families without a child with CHD. It is necessary to develop training for parents to support the adaptation and integration of the disease in the life of the family.

Keywords

• congenital heart disease
• family life cycle
• famil