Graduation Term

2023

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

School of Communication

Committee Chair

Lindsey J Thomas

Abstract

Most individuals are impacted by a cancer diagnosis, in fact 54% of Americans say they or someone in their immediate family has been diagnosed with cancer at some point (CBS Interactive, 2017). While most Americans have a family member with cancer, most research has been done to understand the mother-daughter relationship during such a time. Unfortunately, there is little research regarding father-child communication during a cancer diagnosis, and father-child communication is understudied. The father-child dyad is an important relationship that impacts a child throughout their lives (Fellers & Schrodt, 2021). To further understand these relationships and how cancer may impact it, an online survey was utilized. The survey asked questions regarding father-child closeness, father-child relational satisfaction, and child caregiving. Results suggest that father-child closeness and relational satisfaction were impacted by certain caregiving variables.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

DOI

https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2023.20231004061829964583.999946

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