Understanding the experiences of fathers of children with congenital heart disease: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Carla Gower, Aiveen Higgins, Nichola Doherty, David McCormack

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

18 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Little is known about the experiences of fathers of children with congenital heart disease. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, the lived experiences of six fathers were explored. Two master themes emerged: ‘relinquishing and reclaiming control’ and ‘living in the shadow of illness’. Subordinate themes included playing the support act, a pragmatic/emotional dichotomy, and becoming the child’s protector. Other themes included living in limbo and redefining ‘normality’ to encompass the condition. Theoretical links are made between these findings and existing literature while clinical implications include the need to involve fathers in decision-making and to respect their need to maintain control.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1447-1457
JournalJournal of Health Psychology
Volume22
Issue number11
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 22 Feb 2016

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