De Relatie tussen Ruminatie en PTSS bij Kinderen in Gezinnen Waarvan één van de Ouders Kanker heeft (gehad)

Abstract

Aim This study examines the relationship between rumination and PTSD in children that have a parent who has (had) cancer. In addition, potential differences between boys and girls in rumination, PTSD and the relationship between rumination and PTSD are investigated. The aim is to collect information about the possible effects of parental cancer on children their psychosocial development. Method Families with children between 6 and 18 years and a parent with (a history of) cancer were recruited and could participate voluntarily. 92 children participated, of which 50 boys (M = 11.96) and 42 girls (M = 12.40). They reported on rumination by the RSS-NL and on PTSS-symptoms by the CPSS. Results The results show significant correlations between rumination and all the PTSS-scales. No significant gender differences were found in rumination nor PTSS. Although no significant gender differences were found in the relationships between rumination and PTSS-total and PTSS-re-experience, the results did show that the relationship between rumination and avoidance is stronger for boys. The results for gender differences in PTSD-irritability are not correspondent, which can be subscribed to the difference in multivariate and univariate testing. Conclusion There is a positive relation for rumination and PTSD in children with a parent with cancer. Interventions need to focus on rumination to treat PTSD. Although no gender differences were found in rumination nor PTSD, the relationship between rumination and avoidance is stronger for boys. Future research should pay attention to the different outcomes in PTSD-irritability, and should also focus on the potential interaction between gender and age.