| [ Summary ] |
A family unit in which the father and mother have a stable relationship and can cooperate with each other is ideal. In this situation the pediatric ESRD patient may receive emotional support from both parents. In such a family the child can be emotionally supported and will display few psychological problems. On the other hand, there is another type of family system in which the mother and child express an especially strong emotional bond. In such cases, the child and mother are virtually inseperable, wanting to be close to each other continually. Despite the child's age, this type of behavior demonstrates symptoms of pathologic anxiety about separation. One major reason for this may well be the lack of a family support system. The degree of the father's support is especially relevant. In these cases, the father is usually distant from other family members and assumes a dictatorial role. This type of family is father dominated. Another type of family, is one in which the father shows an attitude of indifference or avoidance toward the other family members. He always avoids them and their problems, claiming to be very busy with his work. As a result the relationship between the mother and child becomes very tight. Mothers and children in the latter two categories, frequently experience phychological problems with ESRD therapy. It is imperative that the renal team give those types of mothers and children constant, intensive support with their ESRD therapies. |