Psychological distress: parents whose children are diagnosed with CHD
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Patterns and predictors of distress in parents whose children receive a diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease (CHD).
IRAS ID
164523
Contact name
S Robinson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Teesside University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 3 days
Research summary
The diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD) in a child or fetus can evoke parental emotions similar to those of a pregnancy loss. Not only an acute grief response but also a pattern of less intense negative emotions has been described. We will measure the range and intensity of emotional response to a diagnosis of CHD and see whether patterns of distress may be predicted.
All parents continuing their pregnancy after a diagnosis of CHD and those presented with an early neonatal diagnosis will be invited to participate. Participation involves the completion of a Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI) and a questionnaire measuring Emotional Response & Intensity. A brief semi-structured interview will also be conducted to explore: participant’s understanding and knowledge of diagnosis, emotional response, personal resources and coping and satisfaction with clinical service.
Quantitative data will be analysed using cluster analysis with exploration of cluster profiles. Qualitative data will be analysed using thematic analysis. Understanding emotional responses and possible protective or risk factors will aid services in delivering effective and appropriate care.REC name
North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/NE/0085
Date of REC Opinion
24 Mar 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion