Dying children and their families : a therapeutic approach for clinical psychologists

Abstract

The aim of this thesis is to describe the clinical psychologist's potential role as a member of the interdisciplinary team dealing with dying children and their families. For this purpose, it includes a theoretical review of the experience of the child who suffers from terminal illness, and the expected reactions of the family. The psychologist's contribution is described; the existing literature is reviewed and suggestions for possible further therapeutic intervention with the child and his family are made. It is concluded that the psychologist is a potentially valuable source of support for both the child and his family, someone who can improve the quality of the child's life and eventual death, and assist the family in their adjustment to the loss of a child and a sibling.