Department of Family Therapy Dissertations and Applied Clinical Projects
Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Dissertation - NSU Access Only
Degree Name
Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy (DMFT)
Advisor
Fatemeh Nikparvar
Abstract
Over the years, there has been an increase in the percentage of childhood cancer diagnoses worldwide. In tandem with the rise in the prevalence of pediatric cancer cases, is a decrease in the emotional well-being of the family unit. The stress of having a child or sibling diagnosed with cancer has been proven to impact various domains within a family. Childhood cancer is a significant psychosocial stressor that causes increased psychological and marital distress levels in parents, as well as high levels of anxiety, negative self-image, and cognitive decline in well-siblings. In addition to increased levels of psychological distress, common variables that are affected by a pediatric cancer diagnosis are communication styles; family functioning (relationships, roles, and rituals); support systems; and coping strategies. Despite existing research demonstrating the detrimental emotional impact childhood cancer has on parents and well-siblings, there is still insufficient mental health support and resources for this population. The aim of this in-depth critical analysis of literature applied clinical project is to investigate the effect a wellness program offered at children’s hospitals can have on the emotional well-being of parents and well-siblings’ of pediatric cancer patients. Development and implementation of similar wellness programs at children’s hospitals nationwide can provide pediatric cancer families with the necessary mental health assistance to help them prosper during their child’s treatment.
NSUWorks Citation
Juliana Benedetti Becker. 2025. Therapists’ Experiences of Personal Loss Through a Bowen Family Systems Theory Lens and Impacts on Their Clinical Practice: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Doctoral dissertation. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, . (94)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/shss_dft_etd/94.