Pediatric-specific parenting stress and family functioning in parents of children treated for cancer

The association between pediatric parenting stress (i.e., parenting stress related to caring for a child with a-medical illness) and family functioning outcomes was evaluated in 116 parents of children treated for cancer. Results indicated that pediatric parenting stress, as measured by the Pediatric Inventory for Parents (PIP), was significantly,correlated with family functioning, using, the McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD) After controlling,for child treatment status (on vs. off treatment), several independent associations among PIP and FAD. scores emerged, indicating that increased pediatric parenting stress is associated with poorer family functioning outcomes. Findings, within the limitations of the study, suggest that pediatric parenting stress and family functioning are important constructs to asses's when working with children who are being treated for cancer, and family-based interventions targeting the needs of this population may be warranted.