Psychosocial Aspects of Cystic Fibrosis

The first major study concerned with the psychosocial aspects of cystic fibrosis (CF) was conducted by Turk1at the National Institutes of Health. This study examined the effects of CF on communication between family members and the interactions between husband and wife. The study also evaluated the presence or absence of significant social and financial stresses associated with the disease. Twenty-five families (25 mothers, three fathers) completed a self-administered questionnaire which focused on the psychosocial consequences of having a child with cystic fibrosis. The CF children had a mean age of 7 years with a range from 3 months to 23 years. Results suggested a number of financial and social stresses in these families, including decreased time and energy available for leisure activities with the family, less time for self, increased concern over finances, less time alone with spouse, and decreased frequency of sexual relations. Respondents indicated, however, that