Exploring parent-sibling communication in families of children with sickle cell disease.

Background: Communication within families of children with sickle cell disease is important yet has not been adequately investigated. Methods: Focus group interviews were conducted with parents of children with sickle cell disease to explore parent-sibling communication about sickle cell disease. Results: Communication was influenced by attributes and behaviors of the parent, the child with sickle cell disease, and the sibling; extended family, neighbors, friends, and church members or social networks; and available, accessible resources related to the child's health, child's school, and parent employment. Outcomes that influenced and were influenced by factors within and outside the parent-sibling dyad and nuclear family included parent satisfaction, parent roles, family intactness, and status attainment. Conclusions: These findings support previous research with African-American families and expand our views of the importance of educating parents, family members, and others about sickle cell disease. Th...