Examining the relationship between family functioning and healthy lifestyle behaviors in children with chronic illness.

AIM: The present study was conducted to determine the relationship between family functioning and healthy lifestyle behaviors in healthy children and children with chronic diseases.

MATERIAL AND METHOD: The study was conducted by using a descriptive and cross-sectional correlational design. The study included 379 children aged between 7 and 18. Data were collected by using Child and Parent Demographic Information Form, Family Functioning Assessment Scale, and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors Scale. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses were used to evaluate the data.

RESULTS

It was found that 42.6% of the children who participated in the study were aged 12-17, 52.8% were girls, and 20.8% had chronic liver problems. Total mean scores for the Family Functioning Assessment Scale and Healthy Living Behaviors Scale were found to be at a medium-low level. Correlation analysis revealed a significant relationship between family functioning and healthy lifestyle behaviors in children with chronic liver disease and epilepsy, while no significant relationship was found between the mean scale scores of other children.

CONCLUSION

Family functions can be observed at different levels in children with chronic health problems and can affect the children's healthy lifestyle behaviors. It is essential to assess family functioning and healthy lifestyle behaviors in children with chronic illnesses.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: When paediatric nurses provide care for children with chronic illnesses, conducting a holistic assessment of both the child and the family and adopting approaches that support family functioning is crucial for the development of healthy lifestyle behaviors in children.