'I cannot accept it' distressing experiences in parents of children diagnosed with cancer: A qualitative study

Aims: To explore the distressing experiences of Chinese parents of children with cancer from the perspective of psychological inflexibility. Design: A qualitative study using a descriptive qualitative approach based on the model of psychological inflexibility was adopted. Methods: Individual semi-structured interviews through synchronized online video were conducted with 21 Chinese parents of children with cancer from October 2020 to May 2021. Data were analysed using content analysis. Results: Four themes and 11 subthemes were identified: (i) immersion in struggling and suffering, (ii) avoidance and suppression, (iii) blaming and complaint and (iv) helplessness and worthlessness. Parents were unwilling to accept the diagnosis and witness their children's suffering, trapped in uncontrollable negative emotions and thoughts. Avoiding emotions and socializing, blaming themselves or complaining of injustice were common. They felt helpless towards life and valueless without the child. Conclusion: The research findings provide additional perspectives in understanding the distressing experiences in parents of children with cancer. Overall, the emotional and coping styles indicated the lack of psychological flexibility of parents when facing childhood cancer, which is profoundly influenced by Chinese culture. Implications for the Profession: Healthcare professionals are recommended to provide culturally sensitive strategies or interventions for building psychological flexibility in addressing parental psychological distress. Impact: The study provides insights into exploring distressing experiences and reveals the inflexible psychological and behavioural patterns in parents of children with cancer, which could benefit healthcare providers in managing parental psychological distress and helping these parents build flexible coping strategies. Reporting Method: The COREQ guideline was followed. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public involvement.