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A Descriptive and Phenomenological Exploration of the Spiritual Needs of Chinese Children Hospitalized with Cancer

Author

Listed:
  • Qi Liu

    (School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Ka-Yan Ho

    (School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Katherine-Ka-Wai Lam

    (School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Winsome-Yuk-Yin Lam

    (School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Eileen-Hui-Lin Cheng

    (School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Shirley-Siu-Yin Ching

    (School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

  • Frances-Kam-Yuet Wong

    (School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China)

Abstract

Spiritual well-being is the fourth dimension of health, as equally important as physical, mental, and social well-being. The shadow of death associated with cancer triggers children to explore their personal values, meanings, and life goals throughout the illness trajectory, enabling them to identify their unique spiritual needs. Chinese children are generally non-religious, unlike Western children, which affects their spiritual needs. To address the literature gaps, we applied a qualitative, descriptive, phenomenological approach for exploring the spiritual needs of Chinese children hospitalized with cancer. Purposive sampling was conducted in two public hospitals with special wards for pediatric oncology patients in Hunan Province, China. Consequently, 22 children, hospitalized with cancer, were recruited and individually interviewed using a semi-structured interview format. We conducted a thematic analysis of the interview transcripts. Four important themes were identified: the need for self-exploration, inner needs, need for a connection with others, and need for a connection with gods, supernatural powers, and fictional characters. We found that culture significantly influenced the spiritual needs of Chinese children with cancer. Hope was a key factor motivating the children to continue cancer treatment. To address their unique spiritual needs, culturally specific interventions should be developed and incorporated into their care to enhance their spiritual well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Qi Liu & Ka-Yan Ho & Katherine-Ka-Wai Lam & Winsome-Yuk-Yin Lam & Eileen-Hui-Lin Cheng & Shirley-Siu-Yin Ching & Frances-Kam-Yuet Wong, 2022. "A Descriptive and Phenomenological Exploration of the Spiritual Needs of Chinese Children Hospitalized with Cancer," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(20), pages 1-15, October.
  • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:20:p:13217-:d:941856
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Kyu-Taik Sung & Bok Song, 2001. "A new look at ideals and practices of filial piety: The case of exemplary filial persons," Global Economic Review, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 30(3), pages 35-49.
    2. Ka-Yan Ho & Katherine-Ka-Wai Lam & Cynthia-Sau-Ting Wu & Man-Nok Tong & Lai-Ngo Tang & Yim-Wah Mak, 2022. "Exploring Contributing Factors of Solitary Drinking among Hong Kong Chinese Adolescents and Young Adults: A Descriptive Phenomenology," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(14), pages 1-12, July.
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    Cited by:

    1. Chun Gao & Jizong Ciren & Dan Wang & Zhaohui Zhang & Ruidong Ge & Li’e Yan, 2023. "Assessment of Psychological and Social Fitness in Healthy Adults Permanently Living at Very High Altitude," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(3), pages 1-10, January.

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